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Thursday 1 Oct 2020

Forden: Popular footpath in South Wales reopened following level crossing upgrade

Region & Route:

Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

A popular local footpath in South Wales near Forden reopened last week following work to improve safety at the nearby Fron Level Crossing

The crossing and footpath have been closed since 2016 after a safety notice was issued by the rail regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.

Network Rail engineers have now relocated signalling equipment on the line, so that trains no longer stop on the level crossing itself, making the footpath safer and more accessible.

The changes made will improve performance of train times and improve the safety of the crossing.

Phil Cuddihy, Project Manager at Network Rail, commented:

We know that this footpath is very popular with local residents and visitors to the area, so we’re delighted we’ve been able to support its reopening.

I’d like to thank Powys County Council, and the local community, for bearing with us while we worked to make the level crossing safer.

Cllr Aled Davies, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Countryside Services, said

I am delighted that these improvements have now been completed and thank you to Network Rail for providing such a great service.

The footpath and level crossing are now available for public use once again, and walkers are free to use the area safely.

Network Rail would like to remind crossing users to remain alert when using the crossing, remembering to ‘stop, look and listen’ for approaching trains and to keep any dogs on leads.