Network Rail has completed a project which has seen the latest safety equipment installed as part of upgrade work for three-level crossings in Norfolk this autumn.

Prior to the upgrades, people using the crossings with any vehicles had to call the signaller in order to get permission to cross. Following the work, people no longer need to contact the signaller due to a more straightforward process being initiated which minimises risk, alongside wait time to cross.

The upgrades also see signallers’ workload reduced, allowing them to focus on running trains safely and reliably.

Two of the crossings which have been part of the upgrade project are Coltishall Lane and Belaugh Lane, which are on the Norwich to Sheringham line between Hoveton & Wroxham and Worstead stations. The crossings have seen their manual gates replaced with automatic barriers, which also cut the risk and potential delays to service created by users incorrectly operating the gates.

The third crossing to take part in the upgrades is Shadwell level crossing, which is on the line between Norwich and Ely, between Harling Road and Thetford stations. The crossing has seen a miniature stop light system fitted as part of the work, which features red and green lights alongside an audible warning in order to make people aware of when a train is coming.

All three crossings have seen pedestrians supported with automatic, visual and auditory warnings as part of the upgrades, which means that people will no longer have to rely on looking and listening for oncoming trains.

Suzanne Renton, head of safety at Network Rail Anglia, said: “The technology we’ve installed will help to keep everyone moving as safely and reliably as possible. Level crossings can be dangerous if not used correctly, so we’re highly focused on reducing the potential for things to go wrong wherever we can.”

“However, even with safety equipment installed, we still rely on users to do the right thing. At all level crossings, I’d urge people to read instructions carefully and always respect locked gates, barriers, lights and alarms.”