Brickfields level crossing closed again due to dangerous misuse
Network Rail cites repeated incidents of children and teenagers risking their lives on tracks near Upminster.
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The central claim is attributed to Network Rail, but no named individuals or documents are cited.
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The article explains why the closure matters and names the responsible body, but lacks quotes from affected parties.
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Network Rail has again temporarily closed Brickfields level crossing near Upminster following repeated instances of dangerous behaviour by children and teenagers. The rail operator stated that the decision was made due to "repeated incidents of dangerous misuse" which put individuals at "significant risk of serious injury or death."
Engineers observed young people engaging in a range of dangerous activities at the crossing. These included performing handstands on the railway tracks, using mobile phones while on the tracks, racing to cross before an approaching train, and playing 'chicken' with oncoming trains. Around 230 trains use this railway line daily, with trains passing regularly at all times.
Brickfields crossing closed after children filmed playing 'chicken'
Network Rail has shut the Havering level crossing for an initial 21 days due to dangerous behaviour.
Previous Closure and Safety Concerns
This is not the first time the crossing has been closed due to safety concerns. Brickfields level crossing was previously shut for 21 days from September 30. Network Rail stated that the current closure will remain in effect until the issue is addressed and appropriate action is taken. Shenel Bullcock, route health and safety manager for Network Rail Anglia, described the behaviour as "extremely concerning" and representing an "unacceptable safety risk to those involved, railway staff and passengers."
Network Rail is urging parents, carers, teachers, and the wider community to reinforce safety messages about the dangers of misusing railway lines. The operator noted that local schools have received educational presentations on the risks associated with railway environments. Network Rail also ran a "No Second Chances" campaign earlier this year to highlight the consequences of taking risks at level crossings.
Overhead wire damage causes major disruption at London Euston
Trains between London Euston and Birmingham New Street faced cancellations and delays of up to an hour.
The railway line at Brickfields experiences significant train movements, with approximately 230 trains passing through daily. Network Rail emphasised that the safety of the public is its absolute priority, and while the closure may cause inconvenience, the risks associated with the observed behaviour cannot be ignored. This temporary closure allows for an assessment of further measures needed to ensure safety.
Questions this report answers
+Why has Brickfields level crossing been closed?
Brickfields level crossing near Upminster has been temporarily closed by Network Rail due to repeated incidents of dangerous misuse by children and teenagers. These incidents included playing 'chicken' with trains and performing handstands on the tracks, posing a significant safety risk.
+Has this crossing been closed before?
Yes, Brickfields level crossing was previously closed for 21 days starting from September 30. Network Rail has now decided to close it again due to the ongoing and repeated dangerous behaviour observed at the site.
+What kind of dangerous behaviour has been observed?
Network Rail engineers observed children and teenagers engaging in activities such as playing 'chicken' with oncoming trains, performing handstands on the railway tracks, and racing to cross the tracks before a train arrived. These actions put them and others at serious risk.
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