Prestatyn Level Crossings
We are excited to share our plan to make a significant investment in Prestatyn, North Wales, to increase the number of trains on the North Wales Coast.
This initiative will not only improve transportation but also boost local tourism and support the community’s growth.
To increase the number of services safely, we need to review the crossing usage in the area and the added risks that this may bring.
These crossings pose a risk to the local community due to the high number of users, such as dog walkers and school children, crossing with poor visibility of forthcoming trains, which can reach speeds of 70 to 80 miles per hour as they pass through.
To protect the public from the risks, we propose permanently closing both level crossings near Beverley Drive and Sandy Lane and constructing a safer alternative way to cross over the railway.
Before we finalise our plans, we would like to engage with the local community to incorporate your feedback and listen to any concerns you may have.
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What work is taking place?
Sandy Lane
Sandy Lane is one of the highest-risk footpath crossings on the Wales and Borders network. Regular users include cyclists, dog walkers, and schoolchildren. We have received numerous reports of near misses and instances of misuse, with three incidents recently reported within an hour on 5 February 2025.
Option 1 – An accessible footbridge to the east of Sandy Lane
A ramped bridge is a very large structure. We have taken previous feedback from the community into account, and based on this feedback, we propose putting the ramped bridge closer to Prestatyn Station rather than in front of local houses.
The images shown are for illustration only, as the proposed bridge is subject to change as the project develops.
Option 2 – Diversion over Bridge Road and current footpath
We have considered a diversion along Bridge Road. This option would mean no construction work and no stand-alone large structure.
Further user impact would include the following:
- Using narrow pavements on Bridge Road and Gas Works Lane.
- Pedestrians would need to cross over the entrance to Home Bargains.
Option 3 – Pedestrian pavement upgrade to Bridge Road
We have also considered additional changes to Bridge Road, which would improve the walking route for users. This option would involve some construction work on the road bridge and its access, but no stand-alone large structure.
Remaining user impact would include the following:
- The access issues along Gas Works Lane.
Beverley Drive
Beverley Drive crossing is not heavily used, and frequent reports of anti-social behaviour occur.
Our proposal is to close this crossing and divert users via a safe alternative route over the railway using the walkway next to the Ffordd Penrhwylfa bridge.
Acknowledgement of previous proposals
Previously, we considered the lowest-cost and shortest diversion option, a bridge at Glan-Y-Gors. However, we are not currently developing this option based on historical feedback and recent engagement with the council and local politicians regarding the visual impact on local residents.
Public Engagement
We will be holding a drop-in session on the date and time given below to share our proposed plans, and we welcome any feedback or questions that you may have.
Wednesday 26 March 2025
14:30 to 19:00
Ty Caradoc Community Centre – 4 Caradoc Road, Prestatyn, LL19 7PF
When is the work taking place?
At this stage, we are still exploring all options, including costs, construction, and a project timeline. Further information will be shared when a single option is confirmed in the coming months.
How will this work affect me?
To ensure the new timetable can be implemented in 2026, we may need to construct a temporary stepped bridge while the permanent solution is being constructed.
We hope to finalise our plans later this year (Summer 2025) to start the design phase of the work.
Why is the work needed?
We want to create a safer way for people to cross the railway by reducing the risk of accidents.
Our proposed plan is to close both crossings and provide an accessible, safe route over the railway to the nearby nature reserve Coed Y Morfa.
Closing the level crossings will also help us increase line speeds and improve train punctuality. More services for North Wales will help drive economic and social benefits for the area.
Get in touch
If you have any questions, please call our dedicated 24-hour National Helpline on 03457 11 41 41, email CRWales@networkrail.co.uk or visit our Contact Us page.