Rail chiefs face quiz on Wem level crossing issues
Rail chiefs will be grilled over the safety of a controversial Shropshire level crossing at a meeting with worried residents.
Network Rail has agreed to host an event in Wem next month to give people the opportunity to ask questions about the town's crossing, which has faced constant problems since it became automated.
The crossing has been mired in controversy since it became automated in October 2013, regularly causing traffic tailbacks, and councillors and residents have questioned its safety.
In March the automatic safety barriers failed to close despite flashing lights warning of an approaching train.
Network Rail said the barriers did not go down because of a temporary road diversion sign causing an obstruction, and the train went through at a reduced speed.
Since then councillors and members of awareness group Wem Train Station Safer group have met with Network Rail to discuss the crossing.
Councillor John Murray, mayor of Wem, said: "Obviously there has been a lot of concern over the crossing. I am not a professional so if they are saying its safe then I have got to accept that. But it is still important we monitor it and keep pressuring them to make it safer. I am sure they will continue to monitor it as well."
Issues have also included a signal fault which caused the crossing to slam shut for three hours, causing tailbacks for motorists, including an ambulance.
Hannah McCarthy, spokeswoman for Network Rail, said: "The aim of the event is to give people the opportunity to speak to Network Rail staff about the level crossing, reassure the public that it is safe to use, and give advice on how to use level crossings safely.
"The crossing uses the most modern level crossing technology in the UK and we want to reassure the public that it is safe to use."
The event will be held on July 10 at a location and time to be confirmed.
