£250,000 rail crossing at Vernatt’s Drain in Spalding now open for pedestrians

A new pedestrian rail crossing is now open, after being closed for several years.

The foot crossing, which is located along the riverside of the Vernatt’s Drain in Spalding, was previously known to be a popular route with dog walkers.

As part of a £250,000 investment by Network Rail, the new crossing — which connects Pinchbeck Road and Two Plank Bridge — has been installed, using new technology.

The crossing opened on Monday, March 31, and includes red and green lights which indicate when it's safe to cross, as well as an alarm to warn pedestrians of approaching trains.

Vinny Briggs, Network Rail route level crossing manager, said: “We had to come up with an alternative solution to what was there before, and decided to use a Vamos overlay system, which uses sound and red and green lights to give the warnings to pedestrians when a train is approaching.

“We also reconfigured the crossing with new approaches, fencing and gates, and a telephone in case of emergency.

“By investing in new technology, we have mitigated the identified risks and improved the safety for the public if the crossing is used as instructed.”

The public right of way was closed several years ago out of caution, while construction work was being carried out on the Spalding Western Relief Road.

The controversial project started in 2022 and although the northern section has been completed, Lincolnshire County Council has announced previously that there are no plans to start the southern route until 2030 due to a lack of funding.

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