Media centre

Tuesday 12 May 2020

Rescheduled Network Rail improvement work at Lincolnshire level crossing begins next week

Region & Route:

Eastern

Next week, Network Rail will begin work to improve a Lincolnshire level crossing, which will make sure it can continue to be used reliably for years to come.  

The work at Swineshead level crossing was originally planned to take place over the Easter Bank Holiday, but it was postponed after a small amount of asbestos was found in the equipment foundations at the barriers. The asbestos, which is below ground level, will be safely removed by specialists and the improvement work will take place between Thursday, 21 and Monday, 25 May. 

Network Rail engineers will replace the old level crossing barriers with new, modern ones. This will create a more resilient railway, help to reduce delays to services and mean that the level crossing remains fit for purpose for years to come.  

Installing the new barriers will improve the reliability of the level crossing, helping to keep vital passenger services running for those who must travel. This also means that freight services can continue transporting food and medical supplies across the country.   

During the work, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians will not be able to use the crossing, and there will be a temporary road closure in place. There will be a fully signposted diversionary route for motorists. The work to replace the level crossing barriers will not impact on train services.   

Network Rail is urging passengers to continue following Government guidelines and only travel on train services if they have to.

In addition to this improvement work, Network Rail continues to make progress on plans to install a new type of heavy-duty road surface at Swineshead level crossing, which motorists on the busy A17 will benefit from.

Vinny Briggs, Route Level Crossing Manager for Network Rail, said: “This work to improve Swineshead level crossing is essential so that it can continue operating safely and reliably and so that vital services can continue running on the railway.  

“The safety of our workers is our priority, which is why we moved the project to a later date so that the asbestos could be removed safely. 

“We are working hard to minimise any disruption whilst this important work is carried out and would like to thank all those impacted for their patience.”  

ENDS