Pushing for Progress at Thatcham Level Crossing

For many people in Thatcham and the surrounding areas, the level crossing is not just an occasional inconvenience - it’s a daily frustration, and one that I share. Long barrier closures, congestion, accessibility issues, and safety concerns have been raised with me repeatedly, and I want to start by thanking everyone who has taken the time to get in touch by email and on social media to share their experiences.

This is not a new problem. Concerns about Thatcham Level Crossing have been raised for years by residents, local businesses, and community groups. Previous MPs for Newbury, including Laura Farris and Richard Benyon, worked to highlight these issues, and I am determined to keep that momentum going.

Recently, I met with Network Rail on site at Thatcham Level Crossing to see the issues first-hand and to press the case for improvements. We discussed the real-world impact the crossing has on people’s daily lives - from parents trying to do the school run, to emergency services navigating delays, to local businesses affected by disruption and lost time.

Network Rail acknowledged the ongoing challenges and outlined the steps they have already taken to reduce barrier downtime. We also discussed future options, including whether alternative crossing solutions could offer a more permanent fix, and how better use of real-time data could help reduce unnecessary delays for motorists.

Alongside this site visit, there has been a significant amount of work happening behind the scenes. I have met with and written to Ministers, raised the issue directly with the Secretary of State for Transport, and engaged with campaign groups, local companies, and businesses to ensure their voices are heard. This sustained pressure is essential if we are to secure long-term change.

There are no quick or easy answers, but I want residents to know that this issue is being taken seriously and that work is ongoing. I will continue to push Network Rail and the Government to ensure Thatcham Level Crossing gets the attention it deserves.