Media centre

Friday 24 Apr 2026

Emergency closure granted for level crossing where youths were reported playing ’chicken’

Region & Route:

Eastern

| Eastern: North & East

Network Rail has closed Sportsfield level crossing in Featherstone following a sustained period of serious safety concerns.

An emergency 21-day closure has been approved by Wakefield Council, starting yesterday (Thursday 23 April), when the crossing was fenced off.

It follows four instances of dangerous misuse in a two-week period, which could have resulted in serious injury or death.

Reports have described youths deliberately putting themselves at risk by playing “chicken” with trains, while in another incident a child was placed in immediate danger by being allowed to wander onto the railway.

The crossing was closed off yesterday afternoon, with the nearest alternative access point being a few minutes’ walk to the east at Halfpenny Lane.

Longer term options for Sportsfield level crossing are under discussion. Network Rail is exploring options for added safety measures before it can be reopened, including possibly installing a system of warning lights.

Darren Robertson-Wilson, Network Rail level crossing manager, said:

“The safety of people who live near or use the railway is our top priority, and we don’t take a decision to seek an emergency level crossing closure lightly.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience this closure might cause for residents but the behaviour seen at Sportsfield level crossing in recent weeks has been extremely concerning.

“We’ll work closely with the local authority and the community as we assess future options for the crossing.”

New risk assessments will be carried out at both Sportsfield and Halfpenny Lane crossings.

In addition, Network Rail is stepping up its community and school engagement to reinforce rail safety messages to young people, while also reviewing additional longer-term measures for the crossings.

All level crossing users are reminded to:

• Always read instruction signs and check both directions for trains.
• Be alert – avoid distractions like using mobile phones or wearing headphones.
• Cross quickly and carefully – never stop on a crossing.
• Never assume it is safe because a train has just passed; another could follow soon afterwards.