Decision details

Purpose of Report: Network Rail are proposing to close the current level crossing in Copmanthorpe that carries Public Footpath, Copmanthorpe No 2 and ‘divert’ the footpath across a new stepped bridge which will be installed at the Beckett’s Crossing site to the north of the current crossing. The level crossing is to be closed due to Network Rail’s plans to increase both the speed and the number of trains in service across all 4 lines, which will create an increased safety risk to users of the footpath. Network Rail have submitted an application under s119A of the Highways Act 1980 to enable the above to take place. The report will include a EqIA to assess the proposal in the context of the Council’s responsibilities under the Equalities Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998.

The Executive Member will be asked to make a decision to either support the application and proceed to make the necessary order(s) to affect the requested diversion, or refuse it.

Resolved:

                      i.         Rejected Network Rail’s application to divert the footpath via a stepped footbridge at Beckett’s Crossing.

Reason:     As the proposed footbridge would not provide provisions to allow disabled pedestrians to use the crossing. The footbridge proposal being unlight and enclosed was also considered to be an unsafe crossing particularly at night.