I have only just become aware of the new threat to the crossing. I was informed in an email from the Greenwich Line Users Group not by Network Rail.
Mike Sparham, Convenor of the Greenwich Line Users Group sent me the following:
"Dear all
On 27th May, Network Rail announced that the Angerstein foot crossing is to be closed after “a series of incidents”. In the announcement they refer to “near misses” and assorted trespass incidents which “have required drivers to apply emergency brakes”. The announcement can be accessed here https://www.networkrail.co.uk/news/highest-risk-level-crossing-in-south-east-london-to-be-closed-with-alternative-route-enhanced/
Network Rail say a “detailed review” shows this is the most dangerous of 342 crossings in the Kent area. The whole announcement is incredibly vague. It does not say what period the review covers, how many incidents there were, when they occurred and what type of incidents they were. The “detailed review” does not appear to be available; at least there is no link to it and I cannot find it on their website. This shows a complete lack of transparency in providing no evidence to support their assertions. I have checked the Rail Accident Investigation Board (RAIB) website, and their annual report, and there is no reference to any incident being referred to them. I will make a Freedom of Information request for sight of the review and details of the incidents.
The crossing is not to close immediately, and there is to be consultation with local community groups. Network Rail have committed to enhancing the alternative route, but it is difficult to see how as the pavement under the rail bridge on Woolwich Road is narrow and unpleasant. We have not been approached by Network Rail, despite our previous interest and the fact that this crossing is used by passengers accessing Westcombe Park station from that area of Charlton. I will register our interest with Network Rail.
There are some inconsistencies in Network Rail’s position. They say drivers have had to apply emergency brakes, but there are stop boards either side of the crossing, so the train should be stopping anyway before the crossing is reached. If there is a problem further along the line, then the issue is trespass and not the use of the crossing. Without details of the incidents we cannot suggest possible alternatives to closing the crossing. The RAIB has published information on the design and operation of user worked level crossings:
This suggests safety features such as lights that show whether a train is approaching.
My view is that GLUG (Greenwich Line Users Group) should continue to oppose the closure of this crossing. We should consider the incidents that have occurred, if we can get the information, and suggest alternative ways of improving the safety of the crossing. According to the information on www.realtimetrains.co.uk in the week 23 - 29 May 2021 there were a total of 29 trains over the 7 days, and 7 of those were between midnight and 6am. With that level of traffic, the slow line speed ( I will check but think it is 5mph) and the stop boards, it should not be too difficult to suggest an alternative approach.
Last time closure was threatened, in 2019, 2120 people signed a petition opposing it.
I would welcome any comments. Unless there are any objections, I will raise the issue with Matthew Pennycook MP, construct a press release, put it on social media, and put some notices on the crossing. According to Network Rail 700 people use the crossing every day, and they need to know what is proposed."
The Greenwich Line Users Group (GLUG) will be opposing the closure of the crossing as outlined in the email above. If you can help in any way or wish to contact GLUG the email address is greenwichline@outlook.com
I will also try to post updates when I have any more news.