West Lancashire residents asked for views on level crossing safety

Network Rail is inviting people in Burscough in West Lancashire to have their say on plans to improve level crossing safety in the town.

Motorists, walkers, cyclists and horse riders are being asked for their views on plans to stop vehicles using Shaws level crossing on Sutch Lane and Crabtree level crossing on Crabtree Lane.

The changes would also realign the paths at each of the level crossings so pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders spend less time on the tracks when they cross the railway.

Karla Telford, sponsor at Network Rail said: “The changes we’re proposing to Shaws and Crabtree level crossings in Burscough will help to reduce the time users spend on the tracks when they cross the railway.

“This will improve safety for everyone and reduce the risk that level crossings present to passengers and crossing users.

“People are able to comment on our plans from 15 February to 28 March by visiting: www.networkrail.co.uk/shaws-and-crabtree-crossings.”

Rosie Cooper, MP for West Lancashire, said: “I would encourage all local residents to participate in this consultation and make their views known to Network Rail. Safety has to come first, and these are options which are being considered to reduce the risk to pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles in my constituency although this may be inconvenient to some.”

During the six-week consultation, there will be a series of online briefings, an automated recording of the proposals and opportunities to get in touch with Network Rail’s project team. More information can be found at www.networkrail.co.uk/shaws-and-crabtree-crossings

If approved by the Secretary of State for Transport, the proposals will help make the future operation and maintenance of the line between Wigan and Southport more efficient, helping reduce costs to the taxpayer.

Safety improvements at Burscough form part of Network Rail’s Level Crossing Safety programme to reduce the risk that crossings pose to the public, passengers and rail industry workforce.

Photo credit: Network Rail

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