Concern as Smithy Bridge level crossing fails again

Smithy Bridge level crossing

Smithy Bridge level crossing continues to cause concern amongst residents and motorists after the latest malfunction.

An eyewitness reported: "At around 12.30 Friday (19 August) the flashing warning lights came on at the level crossing, then one of the two barriers came down on one side followed by the diagonally opposite barrier on the other side. So, if any driver would have dared, it would have been possible to zig-zag over the line, but no car moved.

"Then one of the barriers lifted and then came down again, then the other one lifted and came down again, but at no time was the barrier totally secure.

"The waiting drivers turned around to take alternative routes."

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “The Rochdale West signaller reported an issue with the barriers at the Smithy Bridge level crossing.

“Engineers identified that the issue was caused by a large bush falling off a lorry as it travelled across the crossing and became lodged in the barrier’s mechanism. 

"The vegetation was removed and normal working was resumed within half an hour.”