Ramblers: Sort out rail crossings

News Release

For immediate release

The Ramblers’ Association Scotland has called for the shake up of the rail system outlined in today’s Queen’s Speech to address a level crossing crisis in Scotland. The Speech promises legislation that will "streamline the organisation of the national rail system to improve performance". The Railways Bill will confer new powers on Scottish Ministers to improve transport services.

Dave Morris, Director of Ramblers Scotland, said: “We hope that changes will help resolve some of the access problems we are currently experiencing with level crossings in Scotland. We have found Network Rail to be resistant to constructive dialogue. We hope to see more progress in sorting out this issue in the future. In particular we need to see better communication between Network Rail, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Executive.”

"We are extremely frustrated with Network Rail and their obstructive attitude. We have been hoping for some progress on providing proper advice for crossing railway lines but this has not been forthcoming. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code has no guidance on rail crossings as we understand that Network Rail could not come to an agreement with Scottish Natural Heritage."

Discussions with Network Rail late in 2003 following the initial locking of a number of crossings have been followed by further action by Network Rail.
Notices have been erected at many level crossings that are used for public access. These notices state “private level crossing - authorised users only”, are confusing to the public and potentially inhibit access. They were erected without any consultation with SNH, local authorities or voluntary organisations.