Panel Members considered an application from Network Rail for the extinguishment of part of Footpath 209 Saddleworth as a result of the Transpennine Route (TRU) Upgrade Project at Moorgate Halt, Uppermill.
The Panel were informed that the TRU Upgrade Project will electrify and re-signal the railway at Moorgate Halt, Uppermill , where there is currently an unprotected ‘passive’ crossing.
The crossing receives an exceedingly high volume of usage. The most recent 9-day census recorded 434 movements over the crossing in 11 days, and a high proportion of this use was by vulnerable users.
The Panel discussed the safety concerns of removing a level crossing and the historical local importance of an estimated 175-year-old level crossing.
The Panel discussed the need for Network Rail to have an alternative in place to compensate for the loss of a level crossing.
Options Considered:
Option 1: To approve the application to make a Rail Crossing Extinguishment andDefinitive Map and Statement Modification Order in respect of Footpath 209 Saddleworth at Moorgate Halt, Uppermill as requested by Network Rail.
Option 2: Not to approve the application.
RESOLVED: That the application to make a Rail Crossing Extinguishment and Definitive Map and Statement Modification Order in respect of Footpath 209 Saddleworth at Moorgate Halt, Uppermill be refused.
NOTE: A representative of Network Rail, an objector and a Parish Councillor addressed the Panel on the application and the Chair requested that his abstention on the vote be recorded.