Media centre

Tuesday 20 Dec 2016

Network Rail appealing to anglers to tackle issue of Warwickshire level crossing misuse

Region & Route:

| North West & Central

Network Rail is appealing to anglers who use a level crossing to access a reservoir in south Warwickshire to help tackle reports of misuse.

The footpath level crossing at Wormleighton, between Fenny Compton and Claydon, allows pedestrians to cross the busy Chiltern Mainline between Birmingham and London Marylebone and is used by anglers accessing the nearby Wormleighton reservoir. 

Results of a recent survey at the level crossing showed many users are carrying big and bulky fishing equipment which means the time it takes some people to cross the 90mph line is increased. Visibility at the site is also limited due to a bend in the line which means there is a higher risk to some users. 

To counteract this risk telephones were installed on both sides of the railway and users were encouraged to call ahead to the signaller to request permission to cross the line. Signs were put in place to remind users of the process when requiring to travel across the busy railway line. 

Natalie Stretton, level crossing manager at Network Rail is appealing to crossing users to use the phones either side of the railway. She said: “Telephones are in place at the footpath crossing so that all users can get permission from the signaller to cross the line. This will make sure that everyone using the crossing has sufficient time to cross the railway safely. 

“Less that 20 percent of users are obeying the signs and calling the signaller. It’s a quick process which will make crossing the railway at this location much safer for everyone.” 

John Ellis, fisheries and angling manager from the Canal & River Trust, said: “Angling is a great sport but it’s never worth risking your life for! I would urge all anglers fishing at Wormleighton Reservoir or the nearby Oxford Canal to do the sensible thing and use the phone to check that it’s safe to cross the tracks” 

Anyone with questions about the level crossing can contact Network Rail’s national helpline on 03457 114 141.