Network Rail is taking steps to reduce train noise, a packed community meeting in Cardross heard
MSP Jackie Baillie brought representatives from the agency together with residents to discuss ongoing problems relating to noise from horns of trains passing through the village.
Laura Mitchell, senior sponsor at Network Rail, confirmed that, by the end of this year, miniature stop lights would be installed at two out of three crossings within the village with the exception of Bainfield Crossing.
Miniature stop lights, similar to a traffic light system, had been designed for Bainfield Crossing but they have been deemed unsuitable because the crossing is close to the station and many users are young people who are heading to school.
Network Rail cited an example in Elsenham in which two young people lost their lives, saying that users of the crossing may see the gates closed at Cardross station and assume that it is safe but not take into account that a train could be travelling in the opposite direction.
Network Rail described how the installation of the lights at the crossings locally known as Murray’s Crossing and Geilston Farm would mean that drivers would not need to use their horns at these locations once they become operational.
They were also open to further discussion on the matter and to seeking an alternative solution at Bainfield to the whistleboard which is currently in operation.
Jackie Baillie said she had been inundated with emails and calls from people on the issue both before and after the meeting.
“I want to thank the many people from the village who came to the community meeting,” she added.
“The attendance really showed the strength of feeling from residents and highlighted how keen people are to find a solution which provides ongoing safety and reduces noise levels for those who are worst affected, whilst ensuring that the crossing remains open.
“It is clear that the opinions within the village vary depending on where people stay, as some people who live further away from the trainline experience more noise whereas those who stay closer to the line are not affected.
“On the night, there was a really healthy debate and local people made insightful suggestions which Network Rail will take away to work on. I am pleased that the agency’s representatives were willing to listen and reassure residents that they are taking this matter seriously.
“Everyone at the meeting agreed that the most important factor was people’s safety but there is the possibility of finding a solution which will deliver on this and reduce noise.
“I am hopeful that, with the installation of the new lights at both Murray’s Crossing and Geilston Farm, this will see a significant reduction of noise.”
the Dumbarton constituency MSP said she would meet residents and Network Rail early next year to find out if this has helped to address the problems and to see what further steps can be taken to maintain access, increase safety and reduce noise further.
Network Rail told me the promised warning lights for Bainfield Crossing (a public right of way) were no longer being considered after a tragedy in England where two young girls ignored the continuing flashing lights after a train had passed and they were killed by a second train travelling in the opposite direction. I suggested that in addition to the lights signs explaining the lights will continue to flash if another train is approaching should also be installed. Every house in the Bainfield and Ferry Road areas could also be leafletted with instructions on how to use the crossing safely. Surely it is far safer to have warning lights than not to have them at all? It should also be noted that Murray Crossing, where the lights are to be installed, is used by far more pedestrians than vehicles.
As for train whistle noise pollution – why not retrofit trains with directional whistles similar to the directional sirens now being fitted to fire and police vehicles?