East Road level crossing downgrade

We’re in the development stage of closing the vehicle access at East Road level crossing, near Biggleswade. 

We’re now progressing plans to provide alternative access for residents, businesses and landowners via a new road connecting to Edworth Road, which is approximately 1.4km to the south.  

We’ve made the decision to remove vehicle access from the crossing because the equipment we use to raise and lower the barrier gate is now old and is difficult to maintain. 

Benefits

The current pump-action barriers are outdated and we no longer install this type of equipment. It’s also becoming difficult to maintain the barriers because the parts are becoming hard to replace. 

That’s why we plan to do this work and make sure that access for vehicles to the east of the railway can be maintained properly. 

The project will: 

• Provide a new access road for residents and landowners.
• Improve the reliability, performance, and efficiency of the railway.
• Improve safety on the railway.
• Future proof the crossing for increased capacity and line speeds on the East Coast Main Line.

Our plans

We’re seeking powers to create a new private access road from Edworth Road to East Road. This will allow us to permanently remove vehicle access from East Road level crossing, whilst maintaining access for landowners and businesses in the area. 

Access to the bridleway will not be permanently affected as part of the project and a walking route into Langford will be retained. 

The proposal plans to extend an existing private access road from Edworth Road northwards to link with East Road and includes safety improvements where it connects with Edworth Road. 

We will be permanently acquiring land for the new road and seeking temporary land rights so that the road can be constructed. 

Public consultation 

Community consultation opened on Thursday 16 November and closed on Wednesday 13 December.

Have your say 

We have contacted organisations and lineside neighbours who may be affected by the new private access road to seek views on the TWAO proposals.

Public consultation drop in event

A drop-in event providing information about the project was held on Monday, 27 November 2023 Langford Village Hall.

Downloads

Get in touch  

If you have any questions or would like to know more information, please email eastroadlevelcrossing@networkrail.co.uk