A TOWN could be split in two if plans to close a five-metre level crossing are rubber stamped, it has been claimed.

Network Rail plans to close the footpath over the railway line in Paget Road, Wivenhoe.

The closure is one of ten planned closures in north Essex.

But Cyril Liddy (Lab), Colchester councillor for Wivenhoe, said it would mean the north and south sides of the town could become inaccessible for many people with mobility issues.

The town has three other railway crossings, but Mr Liddy says none are suitable for everyone.

He said: “These plans mean, for some people, the town could be split in half. It absolutely cuts the town in two.

“There is no viable alternative for residents to reach the riverside.

“In High Street, at some points, the crossing becomes so narrow. 

"It narrows to about six inches at one point. If two people meet, one certainly has to step aside - it is a quite inadequate crossing.”

Mr Liddy added Anglesea Road, which runs parallel to Paget Road, is an unmade road which makes it unsuitable for wheelchair and walking stick users - and belongs to the residents.

The crossing at the station has disabled access at the westbound platform, but there is no disabled access on the eastbound side.

Mr Liddy also said he did not believe the closure could be on safety grounds, because there have been no incidents at the site since 1903.

He added: “More recently, Network Rail has sought to invoke the mantra of improving reliability of services under its Anglia Level Crossing Reduction Strategy.

“Since the Paget Road crossing is some 300 metres from Wivenhoe station it is hard to see how any greater reliability of services could be achieved.”

He also labelled the proposals “insulting”, adding: “They assume Colchester residents are incapable of judging the risk of crossing a railway line for themselves.

“The impact of these proposed closures, not just on Wivenhoe, but on many communities across Colchester and Tendring, will be considerable."

As well as the Paget Road crossing, Network Rail also plans to close crossings including those at Wivenhoe Park, Frating Abbey, Great Bentley train station and near Plough Lane.

Network Rail has stated: “We fully recognise the importance of public rights of way and where possible we will seek to maintain connectivity to the countryside by providing alternative options.

“We value feedback on our initial options for the level crossings in the area.”

To comment on the plans, go to networkrail.co.uk/anglialevelcrossings before July7.

A second round of consultation will follow.