Network Rail have installed Miniature Stop Lights at the Green Lane Crossing. This is the same safety equipment that was installed at the Lady Howard Crossing. The lights turn red and a warning siren sounds when a train is approaching. If a second train is approaching from the other direction then a voice is heard warning pedestrians that a second train is approaching and the siren sound becomes more intense.

Having observed them, a resident reported he'd seen the light turning red and the siren sounding. The train passed him and the light quickly returned to green but again another second later turned back to red as a second train was approaching from the other direction.

The resident and ourselves reported this to Network Rail and they attended the crossing today (Wednesday 2nd July) to make adjustments and reduce the siren decibel level. The lights are activated by a treadle in the rails and when the train activates this, it triggers lights and siren. In the incident observed above it just so happened that the second train activated the opposite line treadle a second or so after the first train had activated the "Clear" sign.

Be very aware though, if the light stays red and the verbal warning actiavtes and the siren continues, there is another train coming from the other direction and possibly 'masked' by the departing train. Remember that is why one poor lady lost her life at Lady Howard Crossing. Even though the lights and siren are there to warn you it still makes sense to almost do the "Green Cross Code" to double check personal safety.

Speaking with Network Rail staff today they advised that a young girl wearing headphones just walked across the line oblivious to the oncoming train. The driver was alert though, and applied the emergency brakes. It was reported though as a 'near miss'. Would you cross the M25 without taking proper care? So why treat an equally dangerous crossing with complete disregard for one's own safety? It beggars belief!

5th July 2025 - I've been told this incident predated the installation of the MSLs but it does illustrate the need for clear visual and audible warnings..