After a long campaign, Cllr Chris Steward received notice this evening that Network Rail have withdrawn their legal notice to close Copmanthorpe Level Crossing. While they are still looking at other options, it does mean for now that the crossing will remain accessible to all.
In their letter, Network Rail stated:
I am writing to you in relation to Copmanthorpe No.2 Level Crossing. Network Rail has today withdrawn the TWAO application. This is not a decision we have taken lightly. Accessibility is important to us and by withdrawing the application it will provide a further opportunity to evaluate solutions which may be viable and re-assess the benefits of all options.
Announcing the breaking news on Facebook, Cllr Steward told residents:
I have today received an email saying that Network Rail has withdrawn its application to close the Level Crossing, formally called the Traffic Works Access Order. Network Rail say they wish to further assess the options on accessibility. This follows a Public Enquiry held in Leeds in the autumn.
This is essentially breaking news but I welcome at first look the Network Rail decision. The plans as proposed would have seen a stepped access bridge to cross the railway rather than the current ground level crossing and would have been a real problem for many people including those with disabilities or for example with pushchairs. It also seemed to me utterly short sighted to not build a full accessible crossing now given the development which we will see in the north east of the village. I therefore opposed the planned crossing closure.
A number of local people raised significant objections to the proposed closure and also the Parish Council, Julian Sturdy MP and disability campaigners.
I very much hope we can get an improved solution for the village.
Julian Sturdy MP is set to meet Network Rail in December to discuss alternative options.
