Media centre

Thursday 12 Sep 2013

New footpath replaces a level crossing to unite twin communities

Region & Route:

| Wales & Western: Western

| Wales & Western

A new footpath to provide alternative access to the closed Robinswood level crossing opens to the public today, reuniting the twin communities of Tredworth and Robinswood.

Robinswood level crossing was closed in 2006 owing to high levels of trespass and vandalism with around 111 incidents recorded between 2000 and 2006. Those incidents of misuse were putting people’s lives at risk and as a result a safer alternative way across the railway was considered essential.

Sarah Mitchell, route safety improvement manager from Network Rail, said: “Safety is our number one priority and this new footpath provides the public with a much safer route across a busy section of the main line. We are grateful for the patience and support from the community and the councils to make today’s opening possible.”

Vernon Smith, county councillor and cabinet member for highways & flood, said: “It is good to know that members of the public can now safely make full use of this footpath link at Robinswood.”

Funded by Network Rail as part of its ongoing safety campaign, the footpath is carefully designed to be well-lit and fully accessible by people with wheelchairs or pushchairs. It was also specially built with a steel walkway to protect an active badger sett in the area. The new access runs parallel to the railway stretching from Hartland road to the Sheephouse Bridge and will be maintained by the County Council.

Network Rail has a £130m safety package to help reduce risk and close level crossings where possible. To date, 700 level crossings have been closed nationally and the company targets to close around 78 crossings across the south west of England this year. - ends -