Council would “resist” closing pedestrian rail crossings

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Thursday, 25 October 2018 15:49

By Emily Lloyd - Local Democracy Reporter

Shropshire Council would “resist” moves by Network Rail to close pedestrian crossings in the county.

The reassurance was given yesterday after concerns were raised that the public body is making closures across other parts of the country.

Last year the closure or change to 130 crossings was proposed across the county.

It has led to a series of public inquiries, some of which are still ongoing, as councils and other bodies, including the Ramblers Association, have raised objections.

Network Rail said the changes would improve safety and increase the speed of trains.

But at today’s Great Outdoors Strategy Board meeting the reassurance was given that Shropshire would also fight such changes.

Shona Butler, mapping and enforcement team leader, said: “It is a very different situation here to what is happening elsewhere and with have a good relationship with Network Rail.

“So far we haven’t had any long-term closures.

“But I think the answer to the question is that we would resist wholesale closures and would rather work with them to find an alternative if at all possible.”

She explained that Network Rail had only made 14 changes in seven years, adding: “That’s not many and most them have been for safety works, replacing tracks or working on bridges.

“But we would always consult on changes.”

Ms Butler added: “I don’t think we have a problem here but should it happen we would resist long-term closures to any pedestrian crossings.”

Her view was welcomed by Peter Carr, from the Shropshire branch of the Ramblers Association, who said: “If closure did happen it would have quite a disastrous impact.”

Mark Weston, vice chairman of the board, added: “You have to look at that on a case by case basis.”