New Link Road to Replace "Death Trap" Level Crossing

A new link road near Newark is due to open next month, paving the way for the closure of a level crossing that has long been considered a safety concern.

Network Rail is delivering the £4.7 million scheme in Collingham, which will see the Cross Lane level crossing permanently closed once the new route becomes operational on 29 May.

The newly constructed road runs alongside the railway, connecting the southern side of the existing crossing to Swinderby Road, offering an alternative route for road users.

Following its opening, the current highway that passes directly over the railway at Cross Lane will be formally closed under a legal stopping up order.

The project has been driven by ongoing safety concerns at the crossing. Recent incidents have included a person standing on the crossing to take photographs, as well as another individual who was found injured after falling while using it.

Work on the link road began in February and forms part of a wider programme aimed at improving both road and rail safety, while also enhancing performance on the line.

Once the crossing is removed, trains operating between Newark and Lincoln will be able to travel at higher speeds. The current speed limit on this stretch, which ranges from 50mph to 70mph, will increase to 75mph.

Additional improvements are also being made to nearby sections of Cross Lane as part of the scheme.

A Network Rail spokesperson said the new road will not only improve safety for road users but also support more efficient rail services by removing a key constraint on the route.