Written question asked by Bob Spink (Conservative) on Monday, 23 January 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 25 January 2006. It was answered by Derek Twigg (Labour) on Wednesday, 1 February 2006 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Pedestrian Rail Crossings

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what recent representations he has received on the safety of pedestrian rail crossings;

Answer: The Department receives correspondence on a range of issues including, safety at individual level crossings.I meet the health and safety executive's an a regular basis to review safety issues including level crossing safety. I have at present no plans to visit Benfleet station. It is for HSE's HM Railways Inspectorate (HMRI) to assess whether Network Rail is controlling the risks at the two un-staffed pedestrian crossings at Benfleet station. I have asked the appropriate HMRI representative to contact the hon. Member to see how best to deal with your concerns.Network Rail seeks to close crossings where viable alternatives exist which are acceptable to local residents and crossing users. Level crossing safety is governed by a legislative framework that facilitates the efficient management of level crossing risk and includes powers to ensure adequate protective measures are put in place. As part of this legislative framework, HSE's HM Railways Inspectorate, on behalf of the Secretary of State ensure on a case-by-case basis that individual level crossings are compliant with the legislation and thereby ensure that essential safety standards are being met.

Secondary information