New consultation into closing crossings on North Wales Main Line set to start

A new consultation to close two level crossings on the North Wales Main Line that would enable timetable improvements is set to begin in early 2025.

Network Rail says two foot crossings at Prestatyn - one off Sandy Lane and the other off Beverley Drive - need to be replaced before any timetable improvements can be made.

The Sandy Lane crossing is regarded as the most misused in Wales. In August, NR released footage of a lone toddler on it before the adult caught them up, forcing the driver of an oncoming Transport for Wales Class 197 to slow dramatically.

It was one of 19 reported incidents of misuse at the crossing in the two years up to August, with four of those categorised as near misses. NR first wanted to replace the Sandy Lane crossing with an accessible footbridge a few yards away in 2013.

However, Adrian West, chairman of Prestatyn Town Council’s planning committee, said plans “met with a considerable amount of opposition” amid concerns that people using the bridge would be able to see into locals’ homes.

New locations for a replacement bridge are now being examined. NR aims to start sharing information within the next two to three months.

“We are committed to working closely with the local community by involving them during the development process,” said a NR spokesman.

Replacing the crossings could lead to the line speed being increased from 75mph to 90mph, paving the way for a more intensive timetable.

Transport for Wales wants to increase services along the route by 50%, and wants to extend Liverpool-Chester services to Llandudno from 2026.

Avanti West Coast is looking to add an additional Euston- Holyhead service from May 2025, although RAIL understands that is not reliant on the closure of the crossings.