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Thursday 10 Jun 2021

Public warned over Stevenston level crossing misuse

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Network Rail Scotland and British Transport Police (BTP) are raising awareness of the dangers of misusing level crossings following a series of incidents at the Stevenston crossing in Ayrshire.

Today (June 10) is International Level Crossing Awareness Day and Stevenston has been identified as a level crossing with a worrying history of misuse.

Since May 2020 there have been 10 serious incidents of misuse reported at the crossing including:

• a motorist driving through the crossing as the barriers were lowered
• pedestrians jumping the barriers
• children playing on the crossing
• vandalism of the crossing.

Cunninghame South MSP Ruth Maguire said: “International Level Crossing Awareness Day reminds all of us of the dangers level crossings can pose. I am particularly concerned that Stevenston Level Crossing, in my constituency of Cunninghame South, has been identified by Network Rail as a crossing which has been misused.

"I understand the frustrations that residents in Stevenston have experienced due to this crossing, over the years, since the footbridge over the railway was removed and never replaced. I welcomed the announcement earlier this year of the local authorities' intention to consult residents, in Stevenston, on issues for pedestrians at the town’s train station and await the result.

“I encourage both residents and visitors to Stevenston to recognise the dangers of misuse of the level crossing and take care to avoid distraction when in the vicinity, particularly as we emerge from restrictions and the frequency of train journeys increase.”

Liam Sumpter, Network Rail Route Director for Scotland, said: “Misusing a level crossing can be incredibly dangerous. By paying attention to the warnings at crossings and avoiding distractions, we can all keep ourselves out of harm’s way.

“We work closely with British Transport Police to raise awareness of the dangers of misusing crossings and with local councils and other stakeholders to educate the public on how to stay safe near the railway.”

BTP Temporary Chief Superintendent Gill Murray said: “Each year, hundreds of people take risks on and around the railway, resulting in tragic consequences and life-changing injuries.

“We are continuing to proactively patrol the railway network across Scotland.  Safety is our number one priority and we’re reminding everyone of the importance of taking care around the railway and that everyone loses when you step on the track.”

ILCAD marks the start of Network Rail’s summer safety campaigns which will see the railway industry work with BTP, councils, the Scottish Football Association and charities to raise awareness of rail safety in communities across Scotland.