Train Delays Attributed to Level Crossing Incidents

Network Rail has reported that the improper use of level crossings in East Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire has resulted in 73 hours of train delays since April. During this period, the company documented 116 incidents, which included trespass, arson, and cable theft. A spokesperson for Network Rail stated: “Misusing level crossings is illegal and dangerous, and can lead to court proceedings, serious injuries and death.” The financial impact of this misuse on Network Rail totaled £116,145, with a single incident of vandalism and arson in Gilberdyke on 29 October accounting for £64,774 of this sum. Within Hull, the Walton Street crossing recorded the highest number of incidents in the city with eight, followed by the St George’s Road level crossing, which experienced seven. The Pasture Street level crossing, situated between Cleethorpes and Grimsby, was the site of six incidents, one of which was a hoax call on 15 September. An incident involving youth trespass at Carnaby, located between Beverley and Bridlington on 25 May, caused train service delays of nearly four hours. In Scunthorpe, a single trespassing incident was documented at Keadby Canal on 11 May. Another spokesperson for Network Rail commented: “Trespassing causes delays as train services need to be stopped while trespassers are removed, and checks are made for damage. Vandalism incidents, including fly-tipping, overhead powerline damage and cable theft, also result in delays and costs to the public purse. We work very hard with our partners to educate people about the dangers involved and urge everyone to use level crossings safely.”