A key railway crossing in Lincolnshire has officially reopened following a £250,000 investment by Network Rail, introducing cutting-edge technology to keep pedestrians safe.
The Vernatts Drain public right of way crossing, which links to the recently constructed Spalding Western Relief Road bridge, had been temporarily closed for several years while work progressed on the major bypass scheme.
With road traffic noise making traditional safety systems – like whistle boards – less effective, Network Rail has installed a modern Vamos overlay system, providing visual and audible warnings to pedestrians when a train is approaching. This marks a significant safety upgrade for the local community.
Vinny Briggs, Route Level Crossing Manager for Network Rail, said:
“We had to come up with an alternative solution to what was there before, and decided to use a Vamos overlay system, which uses sound and red and green lights to give the warnings to pedestrians when a train is approaching.
“We also reconfigured the crossing, with new approaches, fencing and gates, and a telephone in case of emergency.
“By investing in new technology, we have mitigated the identified risks and improved the safety for the public if the crossing is used as instructed.”
The enhancements were part of a wider safety package, which included resurfacing of approaches, new signage, upgraded gates and fencing, and the installation of a trackside telephone for emergency contact.
The crossing officially reopened on Monday 31 March, offering a safe route for pedestrians alongside the bypass bridge – and forming an important link in Spalding’s local footpath network.
The investment reflects Network Rail’s ongoing commitment to improving level crossing safety, particularly in locations affected by changing infrastructure and increasing background noise from nearby developments.
