Rail crossings in Lancashire could be closed

Rail chiefs are considering banning vehicles from two railway crossings in Lancashire.

Motorists, walkers, cyclists and horse riders are being asked for their views on plans to stop cars using Shaws level crossing on Sutch Lane and Crabtree level crossing on Crabtree Lane, in Burscough.

The changes would also realign the paths at each of the level crossings so pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders spend less time on the tracks when they cross the Wigan to Southport railway.

Karla Telford, sponsor at Network Rail said: “The changes we’re proposing to Shaws and Crabtree level crossings in Burscough will help to reduce the time users spend on the tracks when they cross the railway. This will improve safety for everyone and reduce the risk that level crossings present to passengers and crossing users."

Rosie Cooper, MP for West Lancashire, said: “I would encourage all local residents to participate in this consultation and make their views known to Network Rail. Safety has to come first, and these are options which are being considered to reduce the risk to pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles in my constituency although this may be inconvenient to some.”

During the six-week consultation from February 15 to March 28, there will be a series of online briefings, an automated recording of the proposals and opportunities to get in touch with Network Rail’s project team.

If approved by the Secretary of State for Transport, Network Rail says the proposals will help make the future operation and maintenance of the line between Wigan and Southport more efficient.

More information can be found at www.networkrail.co.uk/shaws-and-crabtree-crossing