Network Rail Sounds Alarm on Level Crossing Dangers as Summer Holidays Kick-Off
With school summer holidays underway, Network Rail is launching a fierce safety campaign urging kids and parents to steer clear of misusing level crossings. The rail giant warns: one slip-up could be deadly.
Alarming Stats from Sussex’s Rail Crossings
New Network Rail figures reveal 194 misuse incidents and 29 near misses across Sussex in 2023/24. Though misuse incidents dropped 15% and near misses 3% from last year, the message is clear: one near miss is one too many.
Top danger zones in Sussex include:
- Bewbush (Crawley outskirts) – 12 incidents
- Crawley High Street – 9 incidents
- One O’Clock (Burgess Hill) – 9 incidents
- Worthing – 7 incidents
- Clappers Lane (Ferring, between Angmering and Goring-by-Sea) – 6 incidents
- Bourneview (near Kenley and Whyteleafe) – 4 incidents
Southern Region Sees Fewer Misuses but More Near Misses
Across Network Rail’s Southern region — from Devon to Kent — misuse incidents have fallen by 15% since 2017. Alarmingly, near misses have spiked by 31%, highlighting ongoing risks.
Safety Chiefs Issue Stark Warning
“Some railway dangers aren’t visible. Trains zip through at up to 140mph and the electrified third rail can seriously injure or kill,” says Sam Pead, Network Rail’s Southern region level crossing manager. “It’s frustrating to see people risk their lives needlessly. With summer holidays starting, we’re urging everyone to stay safe and respect the railway.”
Nick Turner, Sussex route community safety manager, added: “We work tirelessly with partners like Govia Thameslink Railway and British Transport Police. From school talks to pop-up events, we’re committed to raising awareness and keeping communities safe.”
Safety, Health and Security Director Samantha Facey stressed: “Too many families have been impacted by tragic accidents. Please, please respect the railway and use crossings sensibly.”
A British Transport Police spokesperson warned: “Children sometimes see rail tracks as playgrounds, not hazards. We work with schools to share real-life stories to drive home the dangers. The public can help by reporting concerns to 61016 or 0800 405040.”
As summer holidays get moving, Network Rail urges everyone to respect the tracks, stay alert, and keep safe.
