THERE has been a fall in misuse of a level crossing in Furze Platt following the installation of cameras last month.

Network Rail installed red light safety cameras at the beginning of June to monitor the crossing on Harrow Lane as an attempt to curb dangerous behaviour.

A Network Rail spokeswoman said: “We have seen a marked improvement since the cameras were installed.

“It’s had a real impact in deterring people from misusing the crossing.”

The digital camera system monitors the crossing and will send an image using wireless technology to a back office where the information will be processed.

In the case of an incident, drivers could face a fine, points, or the loss of their licence and British Transport Police will investigate pedestrians misusing the crossing.

The cameras have only recently been commissioned but the lights being in place has already stopped people misusing it.

The Network Rail spokeswoman added: “This is one of the most misused lines on the western route, we have had so many incidents.

“We have done numerous safety days and other events but the message just isn’t hitting home so this was the next stage.”

This is one of many initiatives to improve safety at the site following continuous misuse of the crossing each year, including 25 incidents between April 2014 and April 2015.

The numerous incidents have included motorists ignoring the warning lights; pedestrians continuing to use the crossing when a train is approaching; passengers exiting trains at Furze Platt station and then walking in front of the departing trains; and drivers parking on the approach to the crossing.