Media centre

Wednesday 7 Dec 2016

Suffolk residents invited to see updated proposals to close level crossings across the region

Region & Route:

| Eastern: Anglia

| Eastern

| Southern

Residents of Suffolk are invited to see updated proposals being taken forward to close level crossings in the region, as a result of feedback from consultation sessions held earlier in the year.

Changes have been made to plans at Paynes level crossing in Gislingham and Island level crossing in Bentley. These include changing the diversionary routes to make them shorter and safer than those originally proposed, and building new footpaths to retain access to the countryside. Updated proposals and information about these changes can be found on the website www.networkrail.co.uk/anglialevelcrossings

Richard Schofield, Network Rail’s route managing director for Anglia, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to understand our proposals and provide valuable feedback. We have listened to all the concerns and ideas and identified where we can make changes or improvements to our plans, as well as removing some closures from the proposals as a result. We are committed to delivering a safer and more reliable railway as part of our Railway Upgrade Plan so that we are better able to meet the increasing demand for rail travel across the region.”

In spring 2016, Network Rail launched a public consultation on plans to close or change the use of around 130 level crossings across the region. Proposals put forward alternative diversions using existing bridges and footpaths where possible, that will make the railway safer by removing the point where people can come into contact with trains. The changes will also help improve reliability and may enable separate future developments for faster and more frequent train services.  

A comprehensive programme of consultation was carried out, including 25 public events and dozens of meetings with key stakeholders and land owners, to fully understand the impact of the proposals.

Residents can contact anglialevelcrossings@networkrail.co.uk for more information or to ask questions about the proposals. Those who do not have access to the internet can call the Network Rail helpline on 03457 11 41 41 or write to: Freepost Anglia Level Crossings (please include a return address).

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