The Heol‑y‑Deliad crossing near Margam was closed in June after repeated incidents of trespass and unsafe behaviour. During the closure, CCTV and on‑site security recorded 61 incidents, including people forcing entry through fencing and carrying bicycles with children strapped in across locked gates.
Trains on the South Wales Main Line travel at speeds of up to 125mph, leaving anyone misusing the crossing with little or no time to react.
New deterrents installed
Network Rail said the crossing has now reopened with 2.4‑metre high palisade fencing on both sides and enhanced warning signage. The measures are designed to deter climbing and prevent people carrying items over the railway.
Dean Jenkins, Level Crossing Manager at Network Rail Wales and Borders, said:
“We’ve had people ignoring safety instructions, climbing fences and even carrying bikes with children attached across a live railway. These behaviours are extremely dangerous — trains travel at high speeds and cannot stop quickly.
We want to thank everyone for their patience while we’ve carried out this work, and we urge everyone to always use level crossings safely and responsibly.”
Ongoing concerns
The crossing provides access to land near the coast, where misuse has included attempts to cross using motorised or electric‑powered vehicles — which are prohibited on public footpaths.
Network Rail said it continues to work with DB Cargo UK, Tata Steel and Neath Port Talbot Council on long‑term safety and accessibility, including discussions around the public right of way to the beach.
Safety reminder
Network Rail is urging the public to:
- Stop, look and listen before crossing
- Only cross when sure no trains are approaching
- Never climb, force or go around gates or barriers
- Avoid using bikes, e‑scooters or motorised vehicles on crossings
- Report misuse immediately to Network Rail’s 24‑hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41
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