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reserved for a photo of the crossing with a train on it

Using the Aristotle Lane level crossing safely

This guidance has been extracted from a Network Rail document (Using level crossings safely), which is currently (July 2010) open for comment. It has been adapted slightly to tailor it to allotment holders using the Aristotle Lane level crossing.

The purpose of the guidance is to help you ensure that you cross safely and as quickly as possible. Some trains approach the crossing at over 80 mph, so caution is advised.

Be especially careful if you are carrying a heavy or awkward load, or wheeling a barrow. Remember that you can ask the committee for the use of a key to the Walton Well Road gate and drive across Port Meadow, if it is safer or more convenient to avoid using the crossing to deliver materials (e.g. sheds, timber, bags of compost).

  1. Remove earphones, headphones or any device that could stop you from hearing a train approaching. Remember that weather conditions such as high winds and fog can reduce your ability to hear or see a train approaching.
  2. Don't use mobile phones while crossing.
  3. Keep children close to you. Do not let them run or wander off.
  4. Keep dogs on a lead.
  5. Go through the railway gate and stop where the "Stop, Look, Listen" sign is located.
  6. Do what it says. Stop, look and listen, then look again, before you cross. Remember that trains travel faster than you think and that trees, structures and bends in the track can sometimes obscure your view.
  7. If you see a moving train, don't cross until it has passed. Look out for trains that may have appeared while you waited. (One train may follow another...)
  8. Some times there are stationary trains parked up. Be more cautious, in case they are actually moving, or masking another moving train.
  9. If it is safe, cross quickly, taking care not to slip or trip on the track. Stay alert while crossing.
  10. Do not stop on the crossing.
  11. When in a group, don't just follow the person in front. Everyone should take responsibility for their own safety and stop, look and listen for themselves before crossing.
  12. Consider anyone with you who may need help, such as young, elderly or disabled people.
  13. If you are in a large group, cross in smaller groups to avoid having to wait or queue on the crossing while those in front pass through the gate on the far side.
  14. If carrying a load, or wheeling a barrow, make sure that you are not so heavily laden that you can't easily manage the load without stopping or dropping anything on the crossing. Get help if the load is too heavy or awkward to cross safely on your own. Consider getting the key to the Walton Well Road gate to avoid having to make use of the crossing.