A vital level crossing in Sherborne has reopened after a three-day emergency closure triggered when a vehicle smashed into the safety barriers, Network Rail confirmed.
Sportsfield level crossing was shut to all traffic on Monday following the collision, which caused significant damage to the crossing's protective barriers. Network Rail engineers worked round the clock to complete repairs and restore safe operation of the crossing point.
The incident forced local residents and commuters to find alternative routes whilst repair work was carried out. Level crossings require stringent safety standards, and any damage to barriers can compromise the entire system's integrity.
"Vehicle strikes on crossing barriers can create serious safety risks for both rail and road users," a Network Rail spokesperson said. "We had to close immediately to prevent potential accidents whilst we carried out essential repairs."
The reopening restores normal traffic flow through the crossing, ending the disruption for Sherborne residents. Network Rail has reminded drivers to exercise caution when approaching level crossings and to follow all warning signals to prevent similar incidents.