CONTROVERSIAL plans to scrap level crossings will be on show at a public consultation later this week.

Network Rail unveiled plans for ten closures in North Essex, including seven in Colchester in June, and is now asking residents for their views for a second time.

As part of the proposals, a five-metre level crossing in Paget Road, Wivenhoe, would be shut but critics of the scheme said they feared the town could be split in two making it difficult for people with mobility issues to access the other part of town.

Ramblers have also raised concerns their routes could be extended by miles because of the changes.

But Network Rail bosses say closing the crossings and diverting to alternatives routes will increase safety, improve reliability for trains and enable faster and more reliable services in the future.

The plans will be on display at Firstsite in Colchester between 2pm and 7pm.

Richard Schofield, Network Rail’s route managing director for Anglia, said: “The initial consultations were very successful and we gathered a lot of useful feedback.

"I’d encourage anyone interested to come along to see the updated proposals and share any concerns or ideas with us, before we put these forward under transport and works act orders early next year.

“The proposals include small changes to how people cross the railway and the closures will help us reduce the risks that level crossings pose, improve safety and reliability of the railway for the future.”

The plans are part of a much wider consultation across Network Rail’s Anglia route, which covers Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Hertfordshire, Southend, Thurrock and Havering which has identified 130 potential crossings for closure.

Information about the plans is available on the Network Rail website, and those who can’t attend an event can complete a questionnaire online at networkrail.co.uk/anglialevelcrossings

At Wivenhoe Park, Wivenhoe

Alresford Road, Wivenhoe

Paget Road, Wivenhoe

Thornfield Wood, Wakes Colne

Golden Square, Wakes Colne

Near Kemps Farm, Stanway

Off Maybury Close, Marks Tey