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Tuesday 22 Dec 2020

Level crossing in Cheltenham to close for emergency works until April 2021

Region & Route:

Wales & Western

Network Rail has had to close the level crossing on Brockhampton Lane until 7 April 2021 to undertake vital works.

The level crossing was closed on Friday and will now remain closed until next April to allow Network Rail engineers to carry out essential repair work on the equipment that controls the level crossing.

The scale of work was originally expected to only result in the level crossing closing over two weekends, however, the most recent inspection has revealed that the condition of the wiring that controls the level crossing barriers has unexpectedly deteriorated.

As a result of this essential work, the level crossing will remain closed 24/7 to both pedestrians and vehicles until 7 April, subject to authorisation from the local highways authority.

A signed diversion route for vehicles has been put in place via Hyde Lane and letters have been sent to local residents providing further details of this work including a map of the diversion route.

Network Rail project manager, Spencer Hobbs, said: “We recognise this is a lengthy closure and are sorry for any inconvenience this emergency closure may cause the community.

“The safety of our passengers and crossing users is of the utmost importance to us so we have taken the difficult decision to fully close the crossing whilst we undertake this vital repair work.

“We are aware of instances of trespassing on level crossings and urge people to not put their lives at risk by attempting to cross the railway line while the crossing is closed. Trespassing on the railway is illegal and dangerous and we urge people to follow the diversions that have been put in place.

“We would like to sincerely thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this time.”