Update on Thatcham Level Crossing

I hear from many residents about their frustrations with the level crossing in Thatcham and, as you know, I have been looking closely at what can realistically be done to improve the situation. As a resident, this is also something that impacts me regularly.

Given the strength of feeling locally, lots of work has been taking place behind the scenes to raise this with Network Rail and explore what options might be available.

I am now pleased to say that I have received an update. While it doesn’t remove the problem, it does represent a step in the right direction.

Thatcham level crossing sits on one of the main rail routes from London to the South West, with a high frequency of both passenger and freight trains. This is why the barriers are down so often, and why it is difficult to reduce waiting times without affecting safety and the wider rail network.

Against that backdrop, Network Rail has confirmed that their Level Crossings team is now looking at whether electronic signage could be introduced at Thatcham.

This would not reduce how often the barriers come down, but it could provide advance warning and clearer information about delays, helping drivers make informed decisions about whether to wait or take an alternative route, particularly at busy times.

At this stage, no decisions have been made, and there are legal and safety considerations that would need to be worked through before anything could be taken forward.

However, it is positive that this option is now being considered, and I will continue working with Network Rail to push for practical improvements wherever possible.