Wilthorpe footpath crossing closure extended due to safety risks

The Wilthorpe footpath crossing closure will remain in place for six months, as Network Rail responds to repeated misuse and growing public safety concerns in Barnsley. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

In just two months, fifteen alarming incidents were recorded at the site, prompting an urgent response. Individuals were seen lying on the live rail, placing debris on the track, staging photos, and even forcing open crossing gates. Because of these events, Barnsley Council officially extended the closure under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

Don’t miss…Ticket Sales Surge for Amtrak Mardi Gras Launch Service

Public support grows for Wilthorpe footpath crossing closure

Andy Cunningham, Network Rail’s route level crossing manager, condemned the behavior. He described it as the most dangerous misuse he has ever witnessed, stressing that lives were being recklessly endangered. “We didn’t take this decision lightly,” he said, “but protecting the public had to come first.”

And while the footpath served as a popular walking route, many local residents have since expressed strong support. Their feedback reinforced the urgency and necessity of closing the crossing.

So Network Rail, together with local councillors, reviewed alternative walking paths around the area. They aim to develop long-term solutions that will ensure safety without cutting off essential pedestrian routes.

Wilthorpe footpath crossing closure prompts national action

British Transport Police have also launched safety education campaigns in nearby schools. Officers are working to raise awareness after learning that both adults and children were involved in the violations.

At the national level, Network Rail released a powerful safety video featuring an NHS trauma expert. The video details the devastating effects of train collisions, underscoring the extreme danger of misusing crossings.

Because of the Wilthorpe footpath crossing closure, authorities hope to prevent tragedy and reinforce the importance of respecting railway safety rules.

Source, photo: www.networkrailmediacentre.co.uk

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: