Network Rail Must Reduce Long Level Crossing Waiting Times in Egham - enough is enough!
The Issue
As a local councillor for Egham residents, I have witnessed firsthand the increasing negative impact that disastrously long level crossing waiting times have on the quality of our lives. It is time to take action and hold Network Rail accountable for breaking their promise to reduce waiting times.
The level crossings of concern are: Pooley Green, Thorpe Road/Lane, Egham Station and Prune Hill.
Before the completed works in August, commuters in Egham were already experiencing frustratingly long waiting times at the level crossings. This resulted in countless individuals being late to work and important GP appointments, causing unnecessary stress and inconvenience.
Unfortunately, despite promises of improvement, we now find ourselves waiting an astonishing 15-20 minutes for the level crossing gates to open. This not only exacerbates traffic congestion but also contributes significantly to air pollution as vehicles idle while waiting. The detrimental effects on our environment cannot be ignored any longer.
The safety concerns associated with these prolonged wait times are equally alarming. Desperate commuters often resort to speeding in an attempt to beat the level crossing gates, putting themselves and others at risk of accidents or collisions. We cannot allow this dangerous situation to persist any longer.
It is imperative that Network Rail takes immediate action by conducting a comprehensive feasibility study on potential solutions to this ongoing problem. By identifying and implementing the best solution for commuters in Egham, we can alleviate these burdensome delays and enhance overall transportation efficiency.
I note Network Rail's press release (July 2022) that, "Waiting times at level crossings are set to be cut to 18-25 seconds thanks to new technology which recognises whether an approaching train is fast or slow, and whether it is going to stop at a station." (Highways News). However, there is no sign of Egham bearing such fruits.
Therefore, I urge you all - residents of Egham and those commuting past Egham - to join me in signing this petition demanding accountability from Network Rail. Together, we can make a difference by pressuring them into carrying out a thorough feasibility study on solutions for our level crossing waiting situation.
Furthermore, it is essential that the government holds Network Rail accountable for their broken promises and empowers local government to take action. By doing so, we can ensure that the needs and concerns of our community are addressed promptly and effectively.
Let us stand united in our fight for shorter waiting times, reduced pollution, improved safety, and a better quality of life for all Egham residents. Sign this petition today to make your voice heard!
Thank you for your support.
Cllr Alex Balkan
Egham Hythe Councillor, Runnymede Borough Council
Cllr.Alex.Balkan@runnymede.gov.uk
2,307
The Issue
As a local councillor for Egham residents, I have witnessed firsthand the increasing negative impact that disastrously long level crossing waiting times have on the quality of our lives. It is time to take action and hold Network Rail accountable for breaking their promise to reduce waiting times.
The level crossings of concern are: Pooley Green, Thorpe Road/Lane, Egham Station and Prune Hill.
Before the completed works in August, commuters in Egham were already experiencing frustratingly long waiting times at the level crossings. This resulted in countless individuals being late to work and important GP appointments, causing unnecessary stress and inconvenience.
Unfortunately, despite promises of improvement, we now find ourselves waiting an astonishing 15-20 minutes for the level crossing gates to open. This not only exacerbates traffic congestion but also contributes significantly to air pollution as vehicles idle while waiting. The detrimental effects on our environment cannot be ignored any longer.
The safety concerns associated with these prolonged wait times are equally alarming. Desperate commuters often resort to speeding in an attempt to beat the level crossing gates, putting themselves and others at risk of accidents or collisions. We cannot allow this dangerous situation to persist any longer.
It is imperative that Network Rail takes immediate action by conducting a comprehensive feasibility study on potential solutions to this ongoing problem. By identifying and implementing the best solution for commuters in Egham, we can alleviate these burdensome delays and enhance overall transportation efficiency.
I note Network Rail's press release (July 2022) that, "Waiting times at level crossings are set to be cut to 18-25 seconds thanks to new technology which recognises whether an approaching train is fast or slow, and whether it is going to stop at a station." (Highways News). However, there is no sign of Egham bearing such fruits.
Therefore, I urge you all - residents of Egham and those commuting past Egham - to join me in signing this petition demanding accountability from Network Rail. Together, we can make a difference by pressuring them into carrying out a thorough feasibility study on solutions for our level crossing waiting situation.
Furthermore, it is essential that the government holds Network Rail accountable for their broken promises and empowers local government to take action. By doing so, we can ensure that the needs and concerns of our community are addressed promptly and effectively.
Let us stand united in our fight for shorter waiting times, reduced pollution, improved safety, and a better quality of life for all Egham residents. Sign this petition today to make your voice heard!
Thank you for your support.
Cllr Alex Balkan
Egham Hythe Councillor, Runnymede Borough Council
Cllr.Alex.Balkan@runnymede.gov.uk
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Petition created on 13 September 2023