PROTOTYPE INSPIRATION: LEVEL CROSSINGS
If my hometown could boast any notable features, it would be the 30-plus level crossings that used to interrupt the journey of road users travelling through its streets. By 1980, following the closure of most of the branch-lines that once connected Burton upon Trent’s breweries to the main railway system, the town’s level crossings had disappeared. Some mechanically-operated and others hand-operated using ‘swinging’ gates, none survived to be converted into automatic lifting barriers.
On approaching such a crossing, whether on foot or by road vehicle, on the sound of a bell or gong attached to the side of the signal box, one would either speed-up to beat the crossing gates about to close or, as I would, wait and absorb the experience of a passing train.
Presently, Network Rail is responsible for around 6,000 installations; committed to safety, the organisation has closed 1,250 level crossings. When planning a new railway, crossings whether foot or vehicular are no longer sanctioned. Recently, lifting barriers have been installed at over 60 open crossings and improved warning systems, visual and audible have been fitted.
On the wall, on film and in books
Artists have, since lines were laid, been inspired by the railway scene. One such notable
