Drivers Risk Lives Racing Trains at Kintbury Level Crossing
Despite clear warnings, drivers and pedestrians are playing a deadly game at Kintbury level crossing. They’re ignoring alarms, darting through as barriers come down, and even climbing over fully lowered gates. This reckless behaviour has sparked three near-miss incidents in just two days – February 28 and March 1.
Police Patrols and Cameras Crack Down on Danger
British Transport Police (BTP) are cracking down hard. Officers now patrol the area regularly, and new cameras snap any dangerous offenders. BTP Embedded Inspector Darren Burridge warned:
“Level crossings should be treated with respect. Safety procedures are there for a reason – by trying to beat the system you are not only risking your life, but potentially the lives of passengers and the driver of the oncoming train.
“Fortunately, the recent incidents have been near-misses. However, had the train arrived just seconds sooner it could have been a very different story.
“Have a little patience and wait until it’s safe to cross – it really isn’t worth risking your life in order to save a few minutes.”
Network Rail Issues Stark Warning on Rising Risk
Network Rail’s project lead Steve Melanophy highlighted the surge in dangerous behaviour:
“We are incredibly worried about the spike in the number of level crossing misuse incidents in Kintbury recently.
“Trains can’t stop quickly, even when the emergency brake is applied, so deliberate misuse could easily result in life-changing injuries or worse, loss of life.
“Together with BTP we are urging people not to trespass and to use level crossings responsibly – it is not worth risking your life. The warning signals, barriers and lights are there for your safety.
“We will continue to work with BTP to warn people of the dangers of level crossing misuse, educate them about the consequences and hopefully keep everyone safe.”
