NO CROSSINGS TO BE BRIDGED FOR FIVE YEARS

Greymouth Evening Star, 2 August 1949, Page 9

NO CROSSINGS TO BE BRIDGED FOR FIVE YEARS

WELLINGTON, August 1 (P.A.) —Wavs in which railway level crossings could be made safer were discussed at a conference called in Wellington today by the Commissioner of Transport (Mr G. L. Laurenson). The Railway Department, the Municipal and Counties’ Associations, the Main Highways Board, and road users’ organisations were represented. The conference decided that where a protective device apart front signs is necessary the minimum standard should be flashing lights. American experience, it was stated, showed that -these had a protective value five times as great as signs. The conference was told that because of the urgent demands for other bridges on main roads no railway crossings were likely to be bridged for at least five years. A suggestion was received from the Engine Drivers’, Firemen, and Cleaners’ Association that all level crossings should be made compulsory stops. Delegates considered this impracticable. They decided tliat the number of compulsory stops should be reduced to a minimum, but that the the number of compulsory stops restriction on those left should be rigcrorously enforced. The Railways Department will be asked to consider whethei’ a more noticeable colour and a more, distinctive warning signal could be used for rail-CctFS.. The continued, use of the St. Andrews’ Cross as a warning sign was approved, but it was agreed that more care should be taken in. siting some of these symbols. A sign submitted by the Automobile Association was approved for use as a supplementary warning sign where necessary. It was agreed that where practicable the sign should be painted on the road surface.