The fate of the Penleigh Park pedestrian railway crossing will now be decided by a Wiltshire Council planning committee, after officers received 45 objections to Network Rail’s plans to close it.
Network Rail has applied to close the level crossing, arguing it poses ‘a serious risk of fatality’ due to rising use and the number of vulnerable pedestrians using the crossing. They say the crossing already has the highest level of protection available and that no further safety measures are possible without a bridge.
But locals argue that closing the crossing would cut off a vital link between the Amazon Way estate and the town, forcing residents onto a 1km diversion via Station Road, described by residents as ‘dangerous’ and unsuitable for families, wheelchair users and people with prams.
Among the 45 objections were Wiltshire Council’s Area Highway Engineer, Westbury Town Council, countryside officers, the Ramblers and the Open Spaces Society.
Objections include closing the crossing would cut off vital access to schools, the station, shops and health services, leaving families isolated and more reliant on cars. Those opposed argue the alternative route is unsafe and warn that Network Rail has provided no evidence of accidents at the site. Groups also raised concerns that the closure would harm health, discourage walking and increase traffic and pollution.
Local residents also raised strong objections. One parent said, “We use this crossing four times a day during term time to walk our eldest child to Westbury Infants’ School and back, usually accompanied by her younger sister. If we had to walk via Station Road using the proposed diversion, that’s an extra 4km every single day we need to navigate with a toddler, often in unpleasant or dangerous weather.”
Another resident said, “The crossing has been there for many years with no fatality. The alternative route is longer and more dangerous.”
Wiltshire Council officers have recommended that the decision on the application be made by councillors when the committee meets on 8th October.
