Network Rail is inviting Bedfordshire residents to comment on proposals to remove vehicle access from East Road level crossing in Langford, near Biggleswade.

Under the proposals, vehicles would no longer have the right to use the level crossing, and instead, residents, business and landowners would use a new road connecting to Edworth Road, which is around 1.4km south of the crossing,

Network Rail wants to remove vehicle access from the crossing because it is finding it difficult to maintain the equipment which is used to raise and lower the level crossing barriers.

It argues that if its proposal gains approval, the new arrangements will provide an access road for residents and landowners, and will make the railway more reliable and the level crossing safer.

Network Rail is asking lineside residents and the wider community to give their view via an online consultation, which is open until Wednesday 13 December. Click here to take part.

There will also be a public consultation drop-in event on Monda, 27 November between 13:30 and 17:00 at Langford Village Hall, Mill Lane, Langford, Bedfordshire, SG18 9QB. Network Rail representatives will be in attendance, and will talk through the proposals. Residents will have the chance to ask questions.

Network Rail will include feedback in its application for a Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO), which it expects to submit to the Secretary of State for Transport in Spring 2024. A TWAO would empower Network Rail to acquire the land and rights to construct an alternative vehicle access to the east of the railway, and will also contain powers to make changes to the highway on Edworth Road.

For further information, email [email protected] or call Network Rail’s 24-hour national helpline on 03457 11 41 41.