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Tuesday 11 Sep 2018

Suffolk level crossing reopens following a serious collision

Region & Route:

Eastern: Anglia

| Eastern

Network Rail is urging level crossing users to stay safe as a level crossing on the Felixstowe branch line reopens following a serious collision at the beginning of the year.

Routs level crossing near Nacton, Suffolk, reopened on Monday (10 September) following a long closure owing to a collision between a car and a freight train.

On Wednesday 14 March, a freight train collided with a car at the crossing causing significant damage to the crossing and the signalling equipment. Network Rail engineers worked around the clock to carry out repairs to get the train service back up and running, but the crossing remained closed.

Repairs have been carried out over the last six months in order to reopen the crossing. The power operated gates have been replaced, so the gates now need to be opened manually, but the red and green warning light system remains in place. The signage has also been renewed in order to help people cross safely.

At this type of crossing the user should:

1. Check that the light is green and that no trains are coming
2. Open and secure the gates, checking that the light is still green
3. Return to the vehicle, check that the light is still green and cross quickly
4. Check that the light is still green and close each gate

Richard Tew, Network Rail’s head of safety, said: “This incident was a stark reminder of the dangers of level crossings. Now that the crossing is open again I want to urge those who use this crossing and others to do so safely, adhering to the instructions and signage always. This crossing is for authorised users only and there is no public right of way over it.”

More information about level crossings can be found at www.networkrail.co.uk/levelcrossings