Phil Watts of Moreton-on-Lugg thinks railway crossing should remain closed (From Hereford Times)

Phil Watts of Moreton-on-Lugg thinks railway crossing should remain closed

12:00pm Monday 8th February 2010

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IMUST air my concerns regarding the railway crossing in Moreton-on-Lugg.

Since the recent tragedy which claimed the life of Jane Harding, I am appalled that the crossing was opened less than 48 hours after the accident.

I can almost understand the need to restore the rail service as soon as possible, but to reopen the crossing to road traffic before an official investigation has been completed is both irresponsible and insensitive.

Other motorists and pedestrians have reported faulty barriers since the accident, even on the Monday following the crash, less than six hours after the crossing was reopened.

I drove over the crossing less than 15 minutes before the accident, which is shocking enough for me and my family, but, due to the apparent nature of the crash, this could have happened at any time to anybody.

This could easily have affected a bus full of school children on a normal week day, and this particular accident could have claimed more lives.

I urge users of this crossing to either cross with utmost care or take an alternative route until those carrying out the investigation offer the public a full explanation for this tragic accident.

In my opinion, the crossing should still be closed out of respect for those affected and also for the safety of motorists, residents living near to the crossing, pedestrians, train passengers and staff.

It is perhaps fortunate that the road between Moreton-on-Lugg and Marden was closed during the week following the crash due to flooding.

Who knows if another tragedy at the crossing was averted because of this?

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