Crossing could be shut for six months after misuse

A level crossing where children were spotted "playing chicken" with oncoming trains could remain closed for six months, Network Rail has said.

The operator imposed an emergency 21-day closure of the Sportsfield crossing in Featherstone on 23 April after "a sustained period of serious safety concerns".

At the time, it said there had been four instances of "dangerous misuse" in just two weeks, which included a report of a child being allowed to wander onto the railway.

Network Rail has now applied for an extended, six-month closure to allow time to develop plans for enhanced safety measures, including stop lights and CCTV cameras.

Since last month's closure, it said temporary mesh fencing had been replaced with continuous palisade fencing to prevent access.

It said staff and British Transport Police (BTP) officers had also stepped up patrols to deter trespassers and prevent misuse elsewhere on the line.

The operator has also visited schools across the area to give safety advice to 2,730 pupils.

Level crossing manager Darren Robertson-Wilson said: "Network Rail understands the inconvenience the current closure of Sportsfield level crossing may cause for some people, but safety must remain the highest priority.

"We've seen repeated, reckless behaviour here and the actions we've taken are about preventing someone from being seriously injured or killed.

"Our position remains that increased safety measures are needed before Sportsfield level crossing can be reopened safely.

"While the crossing has been closed, we've continued to work closely with the community, Wakefield Council and BTP to that end."

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