Media centre

Monday 12 Jan 2015

Members of the public warned they could face prosecution if they misuse Furze Platt level crossing

Region & Route:

| Southern

Local residents and other users of Furze Platt level crossing will be learning to stay safe on the railway this week during a campaign organised by Network Rail, British Transport Police (BTP) and First Great Western. A key element of the campaign will be to inform the public that those who misuse the crossing could face prosecution.

Furze Platt level crossing is one of the most misused on the Western route, with 31 recorded incidents during 2014, including one near miss. These incidents have included motorists ignoring the warning lights; pedestrians continuing to use the crossing when a train is approaching; passengers exiting trains at Furze Platt station and then walking in front of the departing trains; and drivers parking on the approach to the crossing.

Alan Durham, Network Rail’s level crossings manager, said: “We have organised several safety campaigns at Furze Platt crossing and after each one, incidents of misuse fall. However, this fall is short-lived, which is why we have decided to take a two pronged approach that includes regularly reminding people of the safety advice, but also taking legal action, where appropriate, against those who don’t follow it.

“I cannot stress enough the danger people are placing themselves and others in by not using the crossing correctly. Hopefully the threat of incurring a fine, points on their driving licence, or even in some cases losing their licence, will be enough to make people think twice before they decide to not adhere to the warning lights and follow the safety advice we provide.”

The campaign will be taking place on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 January. During this time, members of staff from Network Rail, BTP and First Great Western will be at the crossing at peak times to advise users and hand out flyers containing key safety information. These flyers will also be handed out to passengers at Furze Platt station and given to residents and businesses in the local area.

Inspector Becky Warren of British Transport Police, said: “We work hard to ensure drivers and pedestrians are aware of the dangers of crossings.

“Every time someone ignores an amber or red light they are endangering their life and the lives of other rail and road users.

“There are serious penalties for those who misuse level crossings, and we will not hesitate to take action where needed.”

Paula Durrans, First Great Western's head of security, said: "We fully support this campaign by British Transport Police and Network Rail. Working to ensure a safer railway, we would also urge those in the local community to join us in supporting this work by using the railway responsibly."