Network Rail issues safety plea to walkers on Northumberland coast after survey reveals 30% take risks crossing East Coast Main Line

Three pedestrian level crossings, Fenham Hill, Belford Burn, and Easington, see an estimated increase in footfall of around 200% over the Easter period as walkers embark on pilgrimages towards Holy Island.

All three crossings see close to 300 trains pass over them per day at speeds of up to 125mph and Network Rail is reminding walkers of how vital it is to use level crossings correctly and to stay safe on the railway.

The crossings all have a telephone which pedestrians should use to phone through to Network Rail’s signalling centre. A signaller will advise of any approaching trains and liaise with the people wanting to cross over the railway to determine whether it is a safe moment to do so.

However, surveys at the level crossings suggest that 30% of people who use them are not phoning to gain permission to cross, putting their own lives at risk.

Some users become distracted when using the level crossings. Nationally, 19 lives have been lost over the last three years at footpath crossings such as these.

Louise Cox, head of route safety for Network Rail’s East Coast route said: “It is vital that people understand the risks associated with crossing a major railway line such as the East Coast Main Line.

"At these level crossings, over 300 trains a day pass travelling at speeds of up to 125mph. At that speed, it would take a driver over a mile to stop from when they applied their emergency brake.

“Network Rail has installed phones at these locations to add an extra layer of safety for level crossing users. Stopping, looking, and listening before crossing are imperative at all level crossings, but at Fenham Hill, Belford Burn, and Easington, users must also use the phone provided and speak to Network Rail signallers for their own safety.

“While it is good that 70% of people do use the crossing correctly, it is a concern that nearly a third of people are choosing not to use equipment which could save their life.”