Closing a level crossing to create a safer railway in Wales.
This project started in October 2023 and we expect the project to be completed by spring 2024.
As part of our landmark level crossing risk reduction programme, we have closed Trenos level crossing, near Llanharan and started to install a brand-new unique footbridge. It’s a high-risk level crossing due to the vast amounts of frequent trains travelling on the South Wales mainline and the very low sighting.
Trenos is a public footpath crossing for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders and is ranked as the 8th highest risk in pedestrian crossing in Wales. The sighting at the crossing is limited as the railway significantly curves, meaning that crossing users currently rely on hearing the horn warnings from approaching trains.
To mitigate the risks on the crossing, we have started work on-site alongside Taziker, our principal contractor to install a footbridge over the railway.
This bridleway footbridge at Llanharan will be the first of its kind in Wales. It’s designed to provide ease of accessibility for pedestrians, wheelchair users, cyclists, and horses. Ground investigation works are currently being carried out ahead of installing the bridge.
How will this work affect me?
Trenos crossing will be closed for the duration of the work which will be around 6 months to keep the local community and our staff safe. In the meantime, Bryn-y-Gwynon level crossing and the footbridge at Llanharan station will remain open as usual.
Why is the work needed?
Installing this footbridge will dramatically improve the safety of users and the local community. It will also allow us to remove the speed restrictions that are currently in place to allow for the use of the existing Trenos crossing, which will ultimately improve the services along the South Wales mainline.
Level Crossing Safety
On Monday 20 November, we visited two schools in Llanharan, where we recently closed Trenos level crossing, to talk to Key Stage 2 pupils about being safe when using level crossings. Project Sponsor Emily Blackledge and Level Crossing Manager Dean Jenkins, together with Taziker’s Karl Butler, delivered three sessions in English and Welsh to over 200 primary school at special assemblies. As well as informing the children about the importance in using level crossings safely, we also gave them a sneak preview of the footbridge we are currently installing at Trenos in partnership with Taziker.
Get in touch
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our 24-hour national helpline 03457 11 41 41 or contact us.