Media centre

Thursday 20 Jul 2017

Fisherman’s Path crossing closed after cyclist was nearly hit by a train

Region & Route:

| North West & Central

Fisherman’s Path footpath crossing near Formby has been locked out of use after an emergency closure was requested by Network Rail and granted by Sefton Council.

Network Rail announced the 21 day emergency closure last Friday (14 July) after an incident the previous day where a cyclist was nearly struck by a train on the crossing.

Mark Killick, Network Rail’s chief operations officer for the Merseyside area, said: “After the near miss incident between the cyclist and the train, we have taken this step to help keep local people safe at this crossing while we assess what options are available to us.

“The safety of passengers and everyone who comes into contact with the railway is our top priority. We are keen to improve safety at this location - ultimately by closing the crossing and providing an alternative route across the railway. We will continue discussions with the local council to try and find a permanent solution to this issue.”

During the 21 day closure engineers will reassess the crossing and make any alterations which will improve safety. If the work is not complete within the 21 days Network Rail will apply for an extension and the crossing will not reopen until the improvements are complete. Work continues to find a permanent solution to close the crossing and provide an alternative route over the railway.

Fisherman’s Path crossing is rated as the highest risk footpath crossing on the railway between London Euston and Carlisle.

For further information on the closure contact Network Rail’s national helpline on 03457 114 141.