Network Rail makes level crossing near Globe pub Stonehouse safer

The Globe Inn level crossing near Meadow Road playing field now features a traffic light style red and green light.

Previously the crossing used an audible-only alarm system to alert pedestrians of an oncoming train. 

However, users had to wait a long time before crossing because the alarm would sound anywhere between 30 seconds and five minutes.

This meant that some people would take dangerous risks, crossing the line while the warning siren was blaring - potentially walking into the path of an oncoming train.

Seven pedestrians from across the UK died after they were hit by trains at level crossings in the 12-month period to March, according to the Rail Safety and Standards Board figures. 

The level crossing is on a busy footpath that links hundreds of houses around the Meadow Road area to the Stonehouse town centre. 

It’s one of the first sites to use new speed-detection technology by Network Rail which gives users a more reliable warning. 

The improved signal uses a red light and alarm when a train is due that has a more consistent warning time of around 18-25 seconds and when it is safe to cross, a green light shows.

It’s one of the first sites to use new speed-detection technology by Network Rail which gives users a more reliable warning

Richard Pedley, Network Rail’s Western route level crossing manager, said: “We’re pleased that this trial has proved so successful and provides a great example for roll out at similar level crossings nationwide where trains are likely to stop close by.

“The red and green light system, with its consistent warning time will improve the confidence of users who need to cross the railway and reduce the amount of safety incidents.  

“We’d like to thank the local community for their patience while we carried out this work and hope that they find the new system more reliable and easier to use.”

As part of this upgrade, Network Rail has also replaced the old, worn steps, adding a new surface for walkers to use, removing overgrown vegetation and erecting new signage.

The project has been recognised within the rail industry, having been shortlisted for an Innovation of the Year award at the National Rail Awards.

The success of the trial now means that this technology will be available for use at other complex level crossings, enhancing safety across the whole of the UK rail network.