Residents welcome level crossing upgrade

The crossing has been in operation since the end of July and has been well received by local residents, including Irene Stapleton and Eileen Allen, who both live at nearby Ashley Lodge.

Irene said: “I walk my dog, Titch, a couple of times a day so am over and back all the time. I feel much safer using the crossing now.”

Eileen, a full-time wheelchair user said: “The new crossing is great, I am delighted with it. It’s so much easier for a wheelchair user to use and I feel completely safe knowing that when the barriers are up, it’s ok to cross.”

Mr Donaldson said, “I was delighted to see the fruits of Translink’s labours today and to receive a briefing from Clive Bradberry on the operating system of the new crossing. It is encouraging to see how high on Translink’s agenda the safety of local residents is and I welcome all steps taken to ensure the protection of passengers and employees while running an efficient and modern railway service.”

Mr Bradberry said: “This commissioning of the Meetinghouse Lane pedestrian crossing has been in planning for several years. The work to replace the gates at the Meetinghouse Lane pedestrian level crossing with a new automated lifting barrier system began in February 2012. The new system is designed to provide improved safety for pedestrians; the flashing lights and alarm make it very clear when a train is due to arrive, while accessibility has been improved for crossing users with buggies or in wheelchairs who no longer have to manually operate the gates.

“We have been delivering user information leaflets to local residents and would encourage them to read this leaflet and share the information with their families and friends.”

For further information on Meetinghouse Lane crossing or rail safety, contact Translink on 02890 666630.

[email protected]