An inquiry is to be launched into Network Rail’s plans to close or downgrade more than 100 level crossings.

The plans would affect crossings in Cressing, White Notley, Rivenhall, Kelvedon, Feering, Bures Hamlet and a number of others in the east of England.

As part of the proposal, crossings would also be downgraded to non-motorised users, although none of the crossings proposed involve closing A or B roads.

Level crossings could be closed with private rights only, people diverted to a nearby alternative or with the addition of a new public route to a nearby alternative.

Network Rail’s route managing director for Anglia, Richard Schofield, said: “We have carried out a comprehensive programme of consultation to fully understand the impact of our proposals and I’d like to thank everyone who contributed.

“As intended, the feedback we received has informed our final proposals, and we await the decision of the Secretary of State.

“We understand that public rights of way are an important part of life in this region, and have maintained connectivity where possible in our plans.

“We are committed to improving safety and efficiency at level crossings as part of our Railway Upgrade Plan.”

Network Rail claim the plans, if successful, will improve safety, journey time and reliability.

But The Ramblers’ Association has been solely responsible for seeing 17 crossings removed from the plans.

The inquiry will open at 10am in the Civic Centre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, on October 18.

Closures, if agreed, will take place from late next year.

For more information visit networkrail.co.uk.