Positive meeting for Smithy Bridge residents concerned about 'unsafe' level crossing

Concerned members of the public met with representatives from Network Rail on Friday (4 April) to discuss the “unsafe” Smithy Bridge level crossing.

Those in attendance were pleased to hear Network Rail promise that “they aim to make the crossing safe for everyone”.

The level crossing at Smithy Bridge is “unsafe” say local residents after a number of issues arose after it became automated.

Issues with the crossing have included the barriers not operating properly and trains passing through when the barriers where risen.

Residents started a petition regarding the safety of the crossing in early March which attracted over 1,000 signatures and gained support from MP
Simon Danczuk.

Mr Danczuk arranged the meeting with representatives of Network Rail to allow members of the public to address them on the issue.

At the meeting, Network Rail said the site was suffering from “teething problems” and added that the signal box at the station will not be demolished until later in the year.

Mr Danczuk said: “It was a positive meeting and local people made their concerns very clear to Network Rail. They understand that the current system is not up to scratch and I expect to see significant improvements made quickly.”

It is now hoped that as a result of the meeting a comprehensive communication plan will be set up to inform residents about any changes made to the crossing. It is also hoped that residents will be able to report their issues and ask questions online with current contact details and up-to-date failure information being available to them.

A spokesman for Network Rail said: “We held a productive meeting in Smithy Bridge last Friday where we were able to explain how the new level crossing operates, reassure local people about safety and answer residents’ questions.

"We agreed to stay in contact with the local community to address any other concerns and have offered to visit local schools to talk about level crossing safety.

"We have also offered to assist the local highways authority with resource should they decide to make improvements to the subway underneath Smithy Bridge level crossing.”

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/85930/protest-at-unsafe-smithy-bridge-level-crossing