Fears over 'high risk' crossing after train crash death
BBC News reports on a recent tragic incident in Burscough, West Lancashire, where a train collision with a van resulted in the driver's death.
An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision, which occurred off Martin Lane and Whitehouse Lane on Saturday at approximately 15:00 GMT. The train, travelling from Southport to Manchester, collided with a supermarket delivery vehicle.
Residents and witnesses have raised concerns about the safety of the crossing, which is a "user-worked crossing with miniature stop lights" and has a risk rating of B4—categorized as having a "high individual risk" and a "very high collective risk". They claim that the gate on the crossing is often left open by users, posing potential hazards.
One local resident stated, "We really hope that there will be some sort of automated gate... the gate is always left open." They also noted the presence of a CCTV camera at the site for several years.
Another witness, Sophie Cassidy, shared her experience of being on the train during the collision. "I can't put into words how lucky we are to be alive," she said, expressing the relief felt by passengers who were safely evacuated by emergency services.
The line remains closed while investigations continue, with Network Rail and British Transport Police collaborating with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch.