NETWORK Rail (NR) has agreed to carry out work on Chawson’s railway crossing after MP Nigel Huddleston and campaigner John Cook lobbied for safety there to be improved.
After the Mid Worcestershre MP met with rail representatives on Friday and level crossing manager Chris Williams, NR has agreed to repair the gate and resurface the path but added it would still not install lights on the crossing.
Mr Huddleston said: “There are clearly issues with the maintenance of the site.
“Network Rail has said previously the crossing is fit for use but local residents remain concerned it is dangerous.
“I pay tribute to John for the way he has tirelessly campaigned for improvements to be made on this site for more than 20 years, to keep members of his local community safe.
“I hope we can soon get the results he seeks – having spoken to him I know he certainly won’t be giving up until he does.”
A Network Rail spokesman said it had a productive meeting with Mr Huddleston and Mr Cook where the crossing was examined in detail and confirmed the work to replace the gate and resurface the path would go ahead.
“We don’t plan to change the lighting or install gate latches as these can, paradoxically, make the crossing less safe by dazzling users at night or preventing them from leaving the track.
“We would stress even when the repairs are carried out, it remains the responsibility of every person using this crossing to do so carefully and safely.”
</b>
