Media centre

Wednesday 25 Jan 2006

MEDIA INVITATION: NEW UNDERPASS AT GRANGE-OVER-SANDS

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Date:                           Wednesday, 1 February 2006             Time:                          11am             Location:                    Main Hall at Victoria Hall, Main Street, Grange-over-Sands             Event:                         Project update             Media contact:          Hannah Cruickshank on 0161 228 8867 or 07717 877353 The construction of a new £1.3 million pedestrian underpass in Grange-over-Sands, begins in March. Network Rail has already held extensive consultation with stakeholders in the area and is offering journalists the chance to view plans for the scheme and ask questions. The new underpass is being constructed to give local people constant access to the promenade from the car park in Main Street. Network Rail decided to build an underpass after concerns about the safety of the Bailey Lane level crossing were raised following increasing levels of mis-use. Although level crossings are safe if used correctly, the Bailey Lane level crossing has a history of incidents and misuse, which have increased to the point where safety has become an issue. This lead the company to a decision to build an alternative way across the railway line.  The work site will be set up in early February, with preliminary works starting in early March. Once the line has been closed for the essential maintenance work on the Leven viaduct and no trains are running, the excavation and construction of the underpass can begin. The scheme has been programmed to be carried out during the same blockade as Leven viaduct to ensure minimal disruption to passengers. The new underpass will be a real asset to Grange-over-Sands and will allow continuous access to the promenade and make access easier for higher volumes of people. It will also include a ramp for wheelchair and buggy access.