The speed limit sign is to be obeyed by train drivers. The arrow below the "5" sign indicates it applies only to movements taking the "turn right" route at the associated points, i.e. into the motive power depot (engine shed).

The Swanage Railway, like other heritage railways in the UK, is classed as a "light" railway and is exempted from certain "main line" rules and restrictions. However this means it is subject to a line speed limit of 25mph (all UK railway speeds are measured in miles per hour), although some of its locomotives and rolling stock are certified for higher speeds when travelling on the main line.

The building between the road and closest railway line is Swanage Signal Box. This is a "new" structure, completed in 2003, and replacing the original which stood on the other side of the main tracks. In that position it had a clearer view up the line, and backed onto the once-extensive sidings (now the Co-op and health centre); however its location resulted in a "swerve" of the line into the goods shed, and for that and other reasons when the line re-opened as a heritage railway the decision was taken to re-site the signal box.