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22nd May 2007

Rail Crossing Confusion

Conservative Mearns Councillor, George Carr has received a reply to a letter he wrote to Network Rail following an approach by residents of Gardenston Street, Laurencekirk about the safety of the rail crossing.

The main concerns expressed related to the type of gates which are situated at either side of the railway crossing. One resident said that she had seen very young children gain access to the tracks because the gates themselves have a spring closure system, but no catch to prevent toddlers pulling the gates open.

Also raised at the meeting of residents was the signage on the crossing which baffled those present and was deemed confusing. Two round signs, one with a horse and one with a bicycle on a white background within a red circle, are situated at each side of the crossing.

Cllr Carr said that “Network Rail have instructed their maintenance team to examine the gates and signage at the crossing and will report back in due course.

In the meantime, I would suggest that locals keep an eye out for youngsters who may gain access to the tracks, particularly now the summer weather and light nights have arrived."