Near misses spark level crossings trespass warning

Rambling groups and running clubs have a "herd mentality" when it comes to level crossings, Network Rail says

Pedestrians, cyclists and motorists are being warned to take more care at level crossings after a series of "near misses" on Merseyrail lines and several reports of trespassers.

Network Rail said since November 2023 there had been 27 incidents of "misuse" on the West Kirkby line alone, with one person dying.

In August, a train driver had to put on the emergency brake as a lorry crossed in front of it at the Bertram Drive crossing, it added.

British Transport Police said ignoring warnings about trespassing on the railway could lead to "tragic and life-changing consequences".

Acts of level crossing misuse can include gates being left open, handsets being left off receivers at the telephone before the crossing and cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles crossing the line in front of the train.

'Stop, look and listen'

Samantha Richardson, from Network Rail North West said: "These near misses at the crossings on the Wirral shouldn't be happening.

"What we’ve found is people aren’t dismounting off their bikes and there’s a herd mentality habit with people who are in rambling groups and running clubs.

"People often think they can gauge how long it will take before the train arrives at the crossing. We are asking people to stop, look and listen."

The company said the amount of disruption had led to complaints about missed job interviews and hospital appointments.

A British Transport Police spokesperson said: “Unfortunately we have seen too many times the tragic and life changing consequences of people ignoring the warnings about trespassing on the railway, and sadly need to remind the public how to appropriately use railway crossings."