Knaresborough man calls for ‘proper process’ before level crossing is closed permanentlyMan sentenced for Knaresborough level crossing crashKnaresborough level crossing could close after ‘shocking’ number of near missesOvernight diversions as Harrogate level crossing closes for inspection

Belmont level crossing on Forest Lane in Harrogate is to close overnight twice this week, Network Rail has confirmed.

The crossing will be shut to allow maintenance teams to carry out a rail corrosion inspection from 11.20pm tomorrow (Tuesday, November 28) to 6.25am on Wednesday, November 29, and at the same times between November 29 and Thursday, November 30.

A spokesperson for Network Rail told the Stray Ferret:

“This means that there will be no disruption to train services, as the crossing will close and re-open between the last and first services.”

However, although rail services will not be affected, North Yorkshire Council has confirmed there will be signposted diversions overnight for road traffic using Hookstone Chase, Wetherby Road (A661) and the A59 between Starbeck and Harrogate.

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Starbeck children urge drivers to switch engines off at level crossing

Primary students in Starbeck have urged local drivers to turn off their engines while waiting at a level crossing.

Pupils took part in a competition organised by the Starbeck Residents’ Association to design a banner asking motorists to “Stop Idling”.

The Starbeck level crossing is known for being one of the most congested areas in Harrogate.  It is used on average by over 14,000 vehicles daily, many of which keep their engines running whilst waiting for a train to pass.

This is not the first time Starbeck Primary Academy has campaigned on the issue, having participated in an educational campaign on the same problem last year.

Chris Watt, Chair of the Starbeck Residents’ Association, commented:

“People using our High Street are being subjected to unnecessary air pollution which could be improved if drivers simply turned off their engines while waiting at the level crossing.

“They would also save on their own fuel bills.”

Approximately 40,000 deaths a year in the UK are linked to air pollution, according to the Royal College of Physicians. 

Emissions are particularly harmful to children’s growing lungs.

Headteacher, Garry de Castro-Morland said:

“This is a vital topic that we continue to discuss with our pupils and work closely with the community to tackle.”

He also emphasised the importance of a curriculum with a focus on environmental issues that could leave a positive impact on local communities.

The winning banner design, created by enthusiastic year five pupil Freya, 10, has recently been unveiled near Starbeck station where it is now visible to motorists.

Mr Watt added:

“The entries to our competition were amazing, showing huge imagination and creativity and we are delighted with the final banner.”

The Residents’ Association hopes that the school’s contribution will serve as a lasting reminder to drivers to switch their engines off at the crossing.

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Starbeck residents raise anti-social behaviour concerns

Starbeck residents have raised concerns about the level of anti-social behaviour, particularly around the level crossing.

Local councillors and community leaders have received reports of various activities, ranging from late night gatherings to illegal parking.

They are keen for North Yorkshire Police to send more officers to patrol the area to combat the issue.

However, Cllr Tim Myatt, the Conservative representative for High Harrogate, urged anyone with concerns to report them to the police so officers are aware of the scale of the problem. He said:

“Cllr Nigel Middlemass and I are aware of residents’ concerns and we would encourage residents to contact the local police team to log incidents.

“We would like to see an increased police presence in the area to deter unwelcome activity.

“So we encourage residents to report any concerns to the police on the 101 number or via the police website.”

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Charlotte Barker, vice-chair of the Starbeck Residents’ Association, said:

“The Starbeck Residents’ Association recognises that local people are rightly concerned about anti-social behaviour in our area.

“That’s why we have shared residents’ concerns with relevant local organisations and are regularly in touch with the police about these issues on behalf of local people.”

Andrew Hart, who owns the Red Box Post Office on Starbeck High Street, added:

“Policing is a major issue as the local team clock-off at 7pm and are rarely seen during the day. Starbeck continues to be used as a dumping ground.

“Left alone, the homeless hostel residents would be fine but they are not left alone. Improved policing in other parts of the region now means that Starbeck is seen as a soft touch.

“We need some action.”

Drivers ‘dice with death’ at Starbeck level crossing

Drivers who try to beat the level crossing on Starbeck’s High Street have been told they are “dicing with death” and can expect to be fined.

British Transport Police said yesterday it has recorded 12 incidents at the crossing this month, so has put out a warning to anyone thinking of trying it.

Shocking video from the dash cam of a police car captured the moment a 4×4 driver ignored the signals and lowering barriers.

There are cameras at the crossing and BTP said it will increase patrols. It recorded two incidents in one day on both January 8 and January 14.

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Officers are investigating each incident and have said drivers can get points on their licence and a hefty fine as a result.

Inspector Andy Roberts said:

“Level crossing safety procedures are there for a reason.

“By trying to beat the system you risk your own lives and potentially the lives of passengers and the driver of the oncoming train.

“A fine and a few points on your licence is a lucky escape considering what the outcome can be if you dice with death on a level crossing.

“Have a little patience and wait until it’s safe to cross, it really isn’t worth risking your life in order to save a few minutes.”

Darren Lord, the route level crossing manager for Network Rail, said:

“There is simply no excuse to ignore the warning signs, lights and barriers at level crossings. Doing so is incredibly selfish and puts other people’s lives at risk, as well as your own.

“We’re working closely with the British Transport Police to investigate these incidents and we encourage anyone to report any instances of misuse at a level crossing to them.”