GOOD NEWS FOR SAFER RAIL CROSSINGS

"Not only should we see barriers installed on one of the most dangerous crossings this year," said Paul Tyler, "but it is quite obvious that Network Rail would not be investing millions of pounds in our branchline if there was any truth in the rumours about cuts in services or closure of the line."

Following a series of serious accidents – two at least resulting in fatalities – and his long campaign to improve safety, Paul Tyler was delighted by the briefing given to him by Warrick Dent, Regional Operations and Safety manager for Network Rail.

"The crossing at Quintrell Downs is identified as the first candidate for barriers," said Mr Tyler, "both because of the heavy road traffic there and the number of accidents that have taken place in the past. Work there to install them should take place this December, with a cost exceeding £1 million. Some of this sum will cover necessary upgrading of the warning system, which would have to take place at some point anyway, but it is still a substantial investment. I hope that the crossing at Trencreek may be accepted for the 2004 or 2005 works programme. We inspected other crossings in my area, but these are clearly the most urgent, both in terms of traffic and risks."

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