Network Rail has held consultation meetings this month with the community of Manorbier to discuss safety improvements on the open crossings on the Pembroke Dock branch line.

Both the crossings at Manorbier Newton and Beavers Hill have seen several near-misses in recent years, as well as an incident at the latter where a car was struck by a train.

“We had a consultation meeting with the community of Manorbier on November 4 to discuss safety improvements on the open crossings on the Pembroke Dock branch line,” said Network Rail level crossing manager for the Whitland region, Daniel Jones.

“The proposal of installing engineering controls at both Manorbier Newton Open Crossing and Beavers Hill Open Crossing has been very well received by the community.

“We’ve extensively reviewed available engineering control options such as installing level crossing barriers, warning lights and audible alarms.

“All the options are currently being explored further with our engineering team for us to best understand what will improve the safety for both crossings, which is our primary focus.

“We intend to consult with the Manorbier community, ahead of any proposed level crossing upgrades, to make sure that any final decisions are considered suitable to everyone.”

Earlier this year, Network Rail made crucial changes at level crossings in the area, to improve safety for the community and holidaymakers:

• Beavers Hill open crossing at Manorbier, between Manorbier and Lamphey stations

• Manorbier Newton open crossing at Manorbier, between Manorbier and Lamphey stations

• Llanion open crossing near Pembroke Dock station

Trains were previously required to stop on their approach to the crossings, with the driver sounding a horn before proceeding - but now, trains instead approach at a constant speed of 5mph, with the driver sounding the horn as a warning before continuing over the crossing if it is safe to do so.