Network Rail has submitted plans for a smaller footbridge at the Whitebridge Lane level crossing after its original design was refused by Stafford Borough Council earlier this year.
Its original planning application was for a footbridge with ramps but this was refused in July because it “would result in a direct adverse impact on the Grade II listed building on site known as Crossing Gate”. Some local people and councillors had also objected to the scale of the original footbridge.
Network Rail says closing the pedestrian crossing is a priority after four near misses at the site over the last four years, the most recent in May this year. It says that a temporary speed restriction was put in place at the site recently because of the near misses. It consulted with local people in 2011 and laid out a number of options, including a number of footbridges and a subway.
Network Rail has now resubmitted its planning application, which now proposes a footbridge only, with no ramp. If approved it will be made of galvanized steelwork with an overall height of 8m and a span of 28m. In a design and access statement submitted with the new planning application, Network Rail says that the new design would enable ramps to be attached to the structure in future if required. It also states that new trees would be planted to provide additional screening to the east of the bridge.
The statement reads: “Although the structure is quite a large feature and will be constructed of steel, the bridge is not solid and does not completely restrict views in the way a large building may. The vegetation will not only act as a screen but will also soften the appearance of the structure.”
Network Rail says it generally constructs footbridges with a colour scheme of “holly green, dove grey or black” but that a colour scheme for the Whitebridge Lane bridge has not yet been established. It is likely to be a condition that will be attached to the application if it is approved.
The planning application is currently out for consultation. You can view it and submit a comment HERE.
2 comments
Brian Clews
I was in favour of the footbridge with ramps as the now complete bridge restricts its use by anyone other than able bodied persons who are not in possession of prams, wheelchairs etc. There does not appear to be any provision for lighting on the bridge which could very easily be a danger that has been introduced to the rail crossing that was not there before.
The approach roads are illuminated (Whitebridge Lane).
Chris
If the crossing gate building is so marvelous that it’s surroundings must be protected over and above people’s safety in crossing a busy railway line, why is it allowed to be disfigured by barbed wire and steel panels for windows? Perhaps it should be dismantled and re-erected somewhere else where it could be admired in it’s original state?