Level crossing plans for Billingshurst will ‘improve’ safety and efficiency

As part of Network Rail’s plans to modernise the level crossing in Station Road the staircase on the north side of the road would be demolished and repositioned 90 degrees clockwise.

This would facilitate the redevelopment of the existing crossing, with the listed-building signal box expected to be moved to the Bluebell Railway.

On Horsham District Council’s planning portal, the design and access statement states that the signal box, installed in 1876, is considered to be the oldest working signal box remaining in the country.

The new centralised signalling system will require a widening of the level crossing, hence the relocation of the staircase and signal box.

The Arun Valley Re-signalling scheme will see signal boxes at Bilingshurst, Amberley and Pulborough de-commissioned.

It reads: “When the project is delivered it will allow a far wider approach to the level crossing, and further improve the safety and efficiency of the level crossing.

“Furthermore it will deliver a benefit to the adjacent highway as the operation of the crossing will finally allow two cars to simultaneously cross the level crossing.”

Do you think the scheme is good for Billingshurst? Comment below, email [email protected] or call 01403 751230.