Dismay over level crossing replacement planned for York rail line
Network Rail is pressing ahead with plans to create a new, stepped bridge over the railway line between York and Church Fenton despite fears it will exclude people from the countryside.
A level crossing is to be removed as part of the transpennine route upgrade, which will see train travels more regularly through Copmanthorpe at speeds of up to 125 mph across four tracks.
Copmanthorpe Parish Council supports the closure, but is concerned about the proposed replacement of an 8.3 metre high footbridge with nearly 90 steps at Beckett’s Crossing.
The council says it will prevent some people who currently use the route – including families with younger children, dog walkers and the elderly – from continuing to do so.
Copmanthorpe Parish Council has asked for an alternative footbridge, such as a ramped design, which provides disabled access.
But Network Rail argues the crossing, which is part of the Ebor Way, is not currently used by anybody with reduced mobility who would require a fully accessible bridge – due to rough terrain on either side.
And it claims a fully accessible bridge would cost between £3m and £5m extra public money, with more land purchase required and the construction of large “visually intrusive” ramps.
Parish council chairman Robert West said: “We are now looking to enlist the help of City of York Council and the local MPs for York and York Outer to lobby the Secretary of State to ensure that Network Rail provides a new safer crossing that is accessible to all those currently using the crossing and the many more wishing to use the crossing in the future to access an improved road-free link to Bishopthorpe.”
Get things right
In May last year, York Council’s executive member or transport Coun Andy D’Agorne rejected Network Rail’s application to divert the public right of way via the proposed stepped bridge.
He said that the time a the proposals would feel threatening for lone women and would not be accessible for people in wheelchairs.
He added this week: “I do hope our local MPs can ensure that the much-needed safe alternative crossing is accessible to all who want to use it, now and in the future.”
York Outer MP Julian Sturdy said: “I have engaged with Copmanthorpe Parish Council on the issue of the level crossing in the village since the decision was made to relocate and improve it. First exploring the preferred Rec Centre site and now assessing options for an alternative site.
“As part of my ongoing interest in the upgrade, I had a meeting with Network Rail in January where I highlighted the concerns that had been raised with me by the Parish Council, Civic Trust and residents.
“I stressed that if it is a case of budget, I was eager to make representations on their behalf to find funding to cover the difference between a stepped bridge and a ramped crossing.
“I will continue to make representations for extra funding as well as make representations to Ministers about future proofing any upgrade, not only on accessibility grounds but also for potential active travel routes.
“When there has to be change, it is important we get things right first time and include all members of the community.”
Campaigners also claim the proposal would hinder a possible future active travel route linking Copmanthorpe and Bishopthorpe, though Network Rail says their design would not stop ramps being added independently later.
The plan ultimately requires government approval.
Network Rail’s Phil Bates said: “We’ve done a great deal of work to look at who uses the level crossing and have designed a solution that meets their needs, makes the best use of taxpayers money and makes sense for this location with poor current accessibility.
“We continue to welcome feedback as we move towards submitting an application to the Secretary of State for approval this March.”
As an experienced hiker I can absolutely say that this is the correct decision. Last year I used a similar crossing at Belford on the ECML near Berwick. Its a four track crossing. It’s terrifying. You have to phone the signalman for permission to cross and trains pass at full 125mph speed. Sometimes its very hard to hear over the phone line and hear the instructions to stay or cross.
How I wish they wouid erect a footbridge.
And yes I have mobility issues due to arthritis. Steps are painful and difficult but that’s better and safer than crossing the lines themselves.
Hopefully, more crossing such as these are replaced by a footbridge ASAP.