A north community is disappointed with the lack of safety action at an open level crossing where two teenagers were killed after a horror crash nearly 10 years ago.
Paul Oliver and Alan Thain were just 17 when the car they were travelling in was struck by a train at Delny level crossing, Ross-shire, in February 2007.
Driver Richard Fleming survived but was given a five-year jail sentence for causing death by dangerous driving.
Residents living near the crossing have campaigned for safety barriers ever since, and objections were heightened when Network Rail threatened to close the crossing and road access in 2013.
And a year ago, a public meeting was called after the community unearthed details that Network Rail had been in discussions with Highland Council and landowner Balnagown Estates over the option to build a bridge as a replacement for the crossing.
The rail operator told the community that this was the “safest option”, and confirmed that the crossing and current road would not be closed. However, the bridge plans remain at an early stage and the Press and Journal understands that the earliest completion date would likely be March 2019.
Now, with the 10th anniversary of the tragic crash approaching, local councillors and politicians have pledged for action to be taken before it’s too late.
Highlands and Islands MSP (Conservative) MSP Douglas Ross said: “The community are correct to be upset about the delays with any improvements to safety there. History should tell us that fatal accidents can occur at this location and, while a year ago there was some optimism towards improvements we are still waiting for action. I think the community is right to ask Network Rail to bring forward the plans.
“The longer this crossing remains the same, the greater chance another accident could occur and that’s why community pressure is important.”
Kilmuir and Logie Easter Community Council chairman Tom Anderson said that Network Rail last contacted the community by e-mail in February to say that the bridge option was still at an early stage.
He added: “We want to keep the crossing open but want it to be more safe and have barriers installed. It would be fair to say the community is disappointed that nothing has happened. We understand that there is money available with Network Rail but we are disappointed things have not progressed.”
Tain and Easter Ross councillor Alasdair Rhind said he was “disappointed” with the delays over the bridge plans, adding: “My own opinion is that there should be barriers and they should be put in with immediate effect. I can not quite fathom why they’ve not taken the barrier option, because to me that would be the cheapest option and could be done fairly quickly.”
