07.11.12
Ufton Nervet level crossing bridge plans
Network Rail has announced plans to replace Ufton Nervet level crossing with a road bridge, to eliminate risk. A total of eight people have been killed at the level crossing.
A feasibility study was conducted into options including a road bridge, underpass or the installation of full barriers, and Network Rail has concluded that a road bridge would be safest. Planning and highways consent will be required as Network Rail does not own the land around the crossing.
Patrick Hallgate, Network Rail route managing director, said: “We have a once-in-a generation opportunity to make changes at Ufton Nervet as part of our plans to re-signal and electrify the line.
“It is our view that we have a strong case to close the crossing and replace it with a road bridge. Every crossing that we close removes the risk of a person or vehicle being struck by a train and improves safety for everyone on the railway and for those who travel across it.”
Rail Future campaigner Hugh Jaeger told Get Reading: “Deaths on UK level crossings are rare but there is always a risk of human error. Replacing level crossings with bridges will minimise it.”
(Library image)
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