Police probe level crossing collision

The PSNI is trying to establish if the barrier was struck while it was down or if it was hit whilst in the up position.

Whatever happened, it is not believed the barrier was hit as a train was close by. Translink said there was no 'near miss' and it is understood a train did have to stop but that it did so safely a distance away as automatic safety procedures kicked in.

It appears the system's safety features kicked in after the barrier was struck and red lights started flashing and the barrier came down.

This all happened before 7am and it is understood the warning system stayed active until Translink officials turned it off after establishing there was no danger.

But traffic chaos ensued whilst the barriers stayed down as vehicles built up and the 6.38am train from Londonderry was halted as part of the safety procedures and it arrived in Belfast 23 minutes late.

Sergeant Clive Elliott of Ballymoney PSNI said: "It appears the barrier was struck by a vehicle which caused the red lights on the crossing to activate. It caused quite a bit of traffic disruption when the barrier came down.

"Northern Ireland Railways had to come out. We don't know if the barrier was struck when it was in the close position or if it was clipped whilst up but police would stress the need to be safety-conscious and observant at level crossings.

"The train on this occasion stopped.

"If the public notice any problems at level crossings they should notify the railway authorities on the telephone at the corssing when it is safe to do so and they can also contact the police," said Sergeant Elliott.

A Translink spokesperson said: "We can confirm an incident occurred at a level crossing in Ballymoney on Monday 8th March.

"The health and safety of our passengers, employees and the wider public is of top priority at all times.

"We are investigating this incident and assisting PSNI with their investigations. We would appeal to the public to use level crossings with care."

Anyone with information can contact the police on 08456008000.