Network Rail has temporarily closed Brickfields level crossing near Upminster after children were spotted “playing chicken” with oncoming trains and doing handstands on the tracks. The rail operator said it made the “difficult decision” due to “repeated incidents of dangerous misuse”.
Engineers catch risky behaviour
Engineers carrying out a recent level crossing survey caught children and teenagers putting themselves at “significant risk of serious injury or death”. Their antics included performing handstands, using phones, racing across to beat a train, walking on anti-trespass boards and playing ‘chicken’ with oncoming trains.
Shenel Bullcock, route health and safety manager for Network Rail Anglia, said: "The safety of the public is our absolute priority, which is why we have taken the difficult decision to temporarily close Brickfields level crossing."
Community urged to reinforce safety message
Bullcock added: "We understand this closure may inconvenience some local people, but we cannot ignore the significant risks posed by this behaviour. This temporary closure gives us the opportunity to assess what further measures may be needed to keep people safe."
"We are asking parents, carers, teachers and the wider community to help us reinforce this vital safety message. Every railway safety conversation could help prevent a tragedy."
Closure until action taken
Around 230 trains use the railway line at Brickfields every day, with trains passing regularly at all times. The rail operator said the “extremely concerning behaviour [...] represents an unacceptable safety risk to those involved, railway staff and passengers.”
The level crossing shut for 21 days since September 30, but it will remain closed until the issue is addressed and action taken. All year groups in local schools have received an educational presentation warning of the dangers of messing around near railway lines.
Earlier this year, Network Rail ran a campaign highlighting the consequences of taking risks around level crossings. The “No Second Chances” campaign encouraged people to stop, think and stay safe when crossing the railway.
