Translink in level crossing safety drive

Last week the Sentinel revealed hundreds of safety issues have been reported at unmanned level crossings on the Londonderry to Coleraine line since the son of a former Mayor of the city was killed when a train hit his tractor at Myroe in 2007.

Between 2007 and 2011 there have been an incredible 1,208 safety issues reported at unmanned crossings including six near misses and one death - that of Limavady farmer James Craig (70) - whose father Thomas was Mayor of Londonderry in the 1970s.

But Translink say they take regular action to raise awareness of the importance of safety at private crossings.

Keith Pollock, Level Crossing Risk Coordinator, Translink said: “We will issue over 1000 copies of our safety information booklet to landowners who have crossings on their land.

“This activity is all part of our on-going safety campaign to promote the safe use of private crossings, which also includes visits to landowners, community engagement and training for crossing users as well as safety initiatives for young farmers.

“While the majority of users are responsible and use their private crossings correctly, we would ask them to remind suppliers and contractors visiting their premises of their safety obligations.”

He said the local transport provider continues to spread these important safety messages as widely as possible and that it will be mailing copies of its new booklet to crossing users and service providers throughout March.

“Through our community engagement work we have closed almost 40 private crossings in the past 18 months, in partnership with the owners.

“This is something we want to build on and will continue to work closely with crossing owners to find alternative access to their land, where possible.

“I also want to commend our crossing owners who already set a good example across the network and indeed there has been significant reduction in the number of incidents of misuse in recent years.

“However we are not complacent and we will continue to work hard to ensure our safety message and safety initiatives are making a difference.

“We are always happy to discuss any issues at a crossing and would urge crossing users who require information or safety advice to get in touch with us on 02890 355444,” said Mr Pollock.

John Thompson, President of the UFU said: “Any activity that promotes the safety of farmers in Northern Ireland is to be commended and I am aware of the work that Translink does on a year round basis to educate landowners about the safe use of level crossings.

“I would encourage landowners to avail of the help Translink is offering in making their farming activity safer.”

Additional copies of ‘The safe use of user worked crossings’ are available from Translink by calling the number above and can also be downloaded www.translink.co.uk/privatecrossings.