Network Rail may build bridge to irate residents
Olive branch over loss of two Cornton level crossings
Network Rail have agreed to offer residents concerned about the loss of two level crossings in Cornton a possible olive branch in the form of a new footbridge.
Householders in Forth Park and Vale Grove have been vocal in their opposition of the rail giant’s plans to do away with the crossings and create a new £10million road bridge around half a mile away.
They say that the replacement bridge, which is thought to be planned for the B823 between the prison and primary school, will add a significant distance on to their walk into Bridge of Allan – cutting them off from their community and restricting walking access to schools and doctors.
As a result, Keith Brown MSP has been locked in talks with Network Rail bosses in a bid to relay the concerns of the residents and find a solution to the issue.
And he confirmed that the group have agreed to propose a footbridge as part of the development, which would be erected near the existing level crossing and the houses at Forth Park and Vale Grove.
Network Rail are seeking to close the crossings at Cornton before the railway through Stirling is electrified in 2019 as faster, quieter electric trains are said to increase the safety risk.
Mr Brown reckons that the majority of residents would welcome news of a footbridge close to the current crossing as it would appear to allow easy access to Bridge of Allan.
He said: “Over the last few months I have been working with residents of Forth Park who raised some very real concerns – mostly in relation to the extra distance Network Rail’s proposals would mean for people walking to Bridge Allan to access vital services such Schools and the GP.
“Following several meetings with Network Rail, I am delighted that a compromise has been found in the form of a footbridge closer to the current crossing. The majority of the residents I have spoken to are in favour of this proposal.”
Mr Brown added that he is currently waiting on Network Rail to confirm the actual site of the proposed footbridge, and once he has this, a public meeting will take place with residents.
However, local resident Bill Glencross insists a new footbridge wouldn’t meet the needs of all residents in the 85-house estate, and is still pushing for the crossings to be retained.
He said: “I wouldn’t be in favour of this bridge. I have a neighbour who regularly walks into the village, and is currently able to, but might not be able to deal with the incline the footbridge would bring.
“The only way we will really know how the community feels about this is if we go out and knock the 85 doors in the area and ask the residents what they think.
“I would favour a full, four-barrier crossing which could be put in at a fraction of the cost of the proposed upgrades.
“This is going to rip the heart out of our community. The houses are in the Bridge of Allan zone but the village wouldn’t be easily within walking distance. Would the area change zone?
“There are a lot of questions that need to be answered.”