Level crossing work to close A49 in Shropshire for 10 days
One of Shropshire's main roads is to close completely for 10 days for urgent safety repairs to a level crossing.
The A49, which serves as the main arterial road through the south of the county from Shrewsbury to the south Shropshire border, is to be closed from July 1 to 10 to "rebuild" the level crossing at Onibury, between Ludlow and Craven Arms.
Unlike many previous closures in recent years for work to be done on the stretch, it will not be overnight but a complete closure around the clock.
The level crossing has been the site of more than one road traffic accident in recent months.
Tony Mantle, chairman of Onibury Parish Council, said: "Network Rail has informed us that they intend to close the level crossing in July.
"It will be a total closure as I understand it, basically with no pedestrian or vehicle access across the level crossing at all.
"I understand there is some safety issue that needs attending to quite urgently, to do with an incident involving a motorcycle recently.
"They are looking to do some quite serious repairs that they have said should be there for the next 50 to 60 years, not just the next four or five.
"It is extremely inconvenient for the village and it is for quite a long period of time, but it is essential, it is for the long term good.
"It comes at peak time for the the farmers and who use the A49 with their tractors for the harvest as well – but it's got to be done."
He said Network Rail would be carrying out major works to rebuild the level crossing, with the closure will coming into effect at midnight on June 30 and remaining in force until 6am on July 10.
Hannah McCarthy, speaking for Network Rail, said the work would tackle the need for repeated repairs on the ageing crossing.
She said: “Onibury level crossing has been closed at short notice several times recently for essential maintenance, which has caused disruption for the local community and commuters.
“The level crossing is due to be closed between July 1 and 10 to allow engineers to install an upgraded crossing system and renewed track.
"This work will help to prevent repeated closures in the future so that we continue to operate a safe and reliable railway.
“Between now and the closure, we will be talking to the public and local businesses to raise awareness and help people plan ahead.
"There is never a good time to carry out this type of work and we apologise for the disruption this essential upgrade will cause," she said.
Diversions will be in place around the stretch, most likely between Craven Arms and Bromfield.
