BAD LEVEL CROSSING

Press, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22318, 4 February 1938, Page 4

BAD LEVEL CROSSING

RAILWAY AT COBPEN BRIDGE AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION CONCERNED The Cobden bridge level crossing is one of the most dangerous in New Zealand, and something should be done to make it safer for pedestrians and motorists. Either a signal should be installed there, or a crossing keeper stationed near the bridge to give warning of the approach of incoming trains. This opinion was expressed by the Greymouth branch of the Automobile Association. Canterbury, at its monthly meeting on Wednesday evening. A decision to apply once more to the Railway Department and the Transport Department jointly with a view to having something done, which would eliminate the danger to pedestrians and motorists at this crossing, was passed by the association. Reference was made to the deputation which waited on the Railway Department last year, when a promise to investigate the position was given. It was stated that nothing further had been done about the matter. Mention was made of the wig-wag signal to be placed at the Herbert street level crossing, and white satisfaction was expressed wi'Ji this arrangement, it was maintained that the Cobden bridge level crossing was more dangerous and, therefore, in more need of some warning device. Several men who were capable of only light work must be available for a cross-ing-keeper's position, it was stated. The placing of a crossing-keeper might be more satisfactory, and probably less costly than the installation of a signal or the building of an overhead bridge. ± , _ l __, The danger from outgoing trains was not nearly as great as the danger from in-going trains, members said. In view of this the hope was expressed that action in the matter would be taken as soon as possible. Concern at the number who used the traffic bridge to Cobden in preference to the sidewalk on the bridge, was also expressed, and it was agreed that an appeal should be made to persons to use the side-walk for their own personal safety, and to assist motorists in general. It was mentioned that the bridge was an exceedingly busy one for traffic, and, because of this, individuals would be wise to take precautions when using it.