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Tuesday 28 Feb 2006

‘TURN BACK’ WARNING BACKED BY MEP

Region & Route:

An electronic warning system designed to prevent a Preston bridge from being struck by high vehicles is now in operation and has been backed by North West MEP Chris Davies, who recently inspected the bridge.                        Installed on Lytham Road bridge in Preston, the detection system flashes a warning to any vehicle too high to fit safely underneath the six foot six inches Lytham Road bridge – one of the lowest in the North West. Chris Davies MEP said:  “This bridge is 160 years old and has been here a lot longer than the lorries that are damaging it.  Common sense dictates the highway authority should pay to protect it, not the rail traveller.  “Lancashire County Council is to be congratulated for taking the lead and entering into a partnership which shares the cost.  However, central government should be laying down guidelines for where responsibility should lie.” A joint investment of more than £20,000 between Network Rail – which has funded the installation of the system – and Lancashire County Council –which will be responsible for its ongoing maintenance – is expected to reduce the strikes on Lytham Road bridge, which has been hit eight times since April 2003. The electronic warning system is usually installed by the Highways Authorities and this is the first time Network Rail has played such a significant role in the installation of this type of equipment. Gary Openshaw, Area General Manager (Lancashire and Cumbria) said: “Bridge strikes are a huge problem for the railway and I am pleased that we have the new detection system, which will help prevent them.” Local councillor Vali Patel added: “We are proud to work with Network Rail on this joint project to improve the safety of road and rail users.  We hope to extend this partnership working further.”