A level crossing in east London has been closed indefinitely after children and teenagers were filmed playing on the tracks. The Brickfields crossing in Havering, near Upminster, was initially closed for 21 days from September 30, but Network Rail has confirmed the closure will be extended.
Network Rail stated the crossing will remain shut until every year group at local schools has received a safety presentation from Network Rail and British Transport Police (BTP). The decision follows footage captured during a survey, which showed young people engaging in dangerous behaviour, including doing handstands, racing to beat trains, walking on anti-trespass boards, and using phones while crossing.
Shenel Bullock, Network Rail Anglia's route health and safety manager, acknowledged the inconvenience but emphasised the significant risks posed by the behaviour. She added that the closure would allow time to assess further safety measures and urged parents, carers, teachers, and the wider community to reinforce the safety message. Approximately 230 trains use the line daily.