Network Rail has been hit with a £4m fine after a fatality at a level crossing.
The rail infrastructure operator was sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court after admitting breaches in health and safety regulations in relation to the death of 82-year-old Brenda McFarland, known as Olive, who was hit by a train in August 2011 at a level crossing in Needham Market, Suffolk.
Network Rail has closed over 1,000 crossings since 2010
The prosecution followed an investigation by the Office of Rail and Road, which found that Network Rail had failed to act on substantial evidence that pedestrians had poor visibility of trains when approaching the crossing, and were exposed to an increased risk of being struck by a train.
Richard Schofield, route managing director at Network Rail said: ‘We are truly sorry for the death of Miss McFarland. Since this tragic accident we have improved safety by introducing a speed restriction on the line and reducing the crossing distance by straightening the crossing and re-positioning the gates.
‘However, this is not a permanent solution. We believe that removing the level crossing is the safest option and we are continuing to work with the local community to get their support to close this crossing.’
Mr Schofield said that in the year following Ms McFarland’s death, Network Rail’s executive directors had turned down their bonuses and instead chose for this money to be reallocated to a safety improvement fund for level crossings.
He added: ‘Since 2010 we have closed over 1,000 crossings and we are spending £100m across the country improving level crossing safety.’
Ian Prosser, HM chief inspector of railways, said: ‘Over the past decade, Network Rail has focussed its attention and investment on improving health and safety on Britain’s railways. However, despite now being ranked as the safest in Europe, there can be no room for complacency.
‘Rail safety remains a top priority for the regulator. We will always take action against companies or individuals if failings are found.’
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