Dave Thompson MSP

SKYE, Lochaber and Badenoch MSP Dave Thompson has welcomed confirmation of plans to improve public safety at more than 20 open level crossings by adding barriers, including all 21 in the Highlands.

Confirmation came during a meeting on Thursday morning at Holyrood between the MSP and David Simpson, Network Rail’s route managing director for Scotland. Mr Thompson, who has campaigned for the addition of barriers to open level crossings since his election in 2007, said the addition of barriers to 23 open crossings in Scotland, 21 of which are in the Highlands, was a welcome development.

“David Simpson and I had a very positive meeting at which he was able to give very welcome news of trials of a new type of barrier system and the intention to roll-out this new style of gate across the country’s currently open level crossings over the next two years.

“I am relieved that we will soon see public safety at Scotland’s level crossings improved dramatically through this measure.

“I believe that through this step, the current personnel at Network Rail are doing all they can to bring to an end the regular toll of accidents at level crossings and I commend them for that.

David Simpson added: “Network Rail is committed to further enhancing safety on the railway and is working hard to progress the new mini-barrier system which, subject to a successful trial, will be rolled out to open crossings across the Highlands.

“We are also seeking to close crossings where possible and investing in other additional safety measures such as police CCTV monitoring vans and additional fixed cameras for level crossings to deter driver misuse.

The new type of barrier system can be installed for an average of £100,000 per crossing, compared to an average of more than £500,000 under the old system (and significantly more at some locations).

A trial of the new system is due to begin at Ardrossan within weeks and will be followed soon after at a second trial site in the Ayrshire town.

Once any technical issues have been resolved, and subject to ORR approval and the co-operation of local roads authorities, the new system will be rolled out to the remaining 21 Highland crossings.

It is anticipated that this roll-out will begin this autumn and be completed within two years.

Note:

The new system is less expensive because it has been developed as a modular unit capable of being fitted to most existing crossings, reducing the cost of individual planning and design.