Local authorities are lining up to test a new ‘economic-assessment framework’ being drawn up to reveal the benefits of modifying, replacing or removing level crossings. The Rail Safety Standards Board research project is looking at how safety and congestion benefits can be factored into the equation, when preparing the case for schemes.
Senior officials believe the assessment framework will assist the increased engagement between Network Rail and local highway authorities that the Road Safety Bill would require.
The Bill would empower the transport secretary to require the operators of level crossings, councils or both, to provide ‘any specified equipment’ necessary to improve safety (Surveyor, 20 April).