Needham Market footpath opens as Gipsy Lane level crossing permanently closed

A town's level crossing has been permanently closed with a new footpath open.

Network Rail has taken steps to improve safety at the Gipsy Lane pedestrian level crossing in Needham Market following the death of Olive McFarland who was struck and killed by a train in 2011.

Following the incident, temporary speed restrictions were introduced for trains and safety measures were implemented by straightening the crossing and repositioning the gate. These adjustments were made to reduce the crossing distance while long-term alternatives were considered.

Collaborating with Suffolk County Council and the community, Network Rail developed a plan to construct a new footpath north of Gipsy Lane which uses a dry channel of an existing culvert underpass to provide a safer way for pedestrians to cross.

Katie Frost, Network Rail’s route director for Anglia, said: “This closure has been a long time coming and I'm pleased that we’ve finally been able to build a safer walking route for people to cross this very busy stretch of railway.

“This will significantly improve safety for everyone who needs to cross the railway at Gipsy Lane and for those working and travelling on it.

“Thank you to the support of Suffolk County Council and our contractor Taziker in making this a reality.”

A memorial plaque for Olive McFarland, agreed with her family, has been placed at the entrance to the culvert.

Cllr Paul West, Suffolk County Council cabinet member for Ipswich, operational highways and flooding, said: “I am pleased that we are finally in a position after much waiting where the level crossing can be closed and replaced by a new and much safer footpath.

“The safety of the public is paramount and I commend Network Rail for taking action to address the risks with this crossing and for coming up with a long-term solution.”