image source, Live traffic in the Northeast
The train collided with a car near the Callerton Parkway station Thursday morning
There should be an “urgent review” of the safety of barrier-free level crossings after a car collided with a train, councilors have said.
Tyne and Wear Metro was brought to a standstill following the crash on Callerton Lane, near Callerton Parkway, on Thursday.
Ian Donaldson, councilor for Callerton and Throckley, described the junction as “not fit for purpose”.
Metro operator Nexus, which also manages the infrastructure, said the crossing had “very clear” warning lights.
Trains were stopped between Newcastle Airport and Kingston Park after the accident at around 07:30 BST.
The Kia car involved was damaged but no one was injured in the accident.
There have been previous crashes in 2020, 2013, 2007 and 1999 when former Newcastle United defender Andy Griffin’s Porsche collided with a train.
The crossing has no barriers, but has warning signs and flashing lights to warn drivers of an approaching train.
The junction at Callerton Parkway near Newcastle Airport
But councilors and candidates standing in May’s local elections have expressed concern about its current form.
Donaldson, of the Newcastle Independents Party, said: “It is clear that having a crossing where trains and subway cars are only separated by lights is not fit for purpose.
“Following this latest incident, there is an urgent need to review the safety of all subway crossings.”
Liberal Democrat councilor Thom Campion said it was “surprising” that barriers had not been installed at the crossing.
“The warning signs of another incident have been there for years, we need action and not apologies before someone is seriously hurt,” said Campion, from neighboring Castle.
Labor candidate for Callerton and Throckley ward Adam Walker added that he had contacted the council and Nexus with his concerns.
“Impractical” barriers
Metro infrastructure director Stuart Clarke said each step had been “rigorously assessed” last year and all “met the required safety standards”.
He said almost “all level crossing risk” is caused by drivers using the crossing and urged motorists to “take due care and stop when they see a red light”.
“The installation of barriers at Metro level crossings is not something that is practical in the urban areas that we serve,” he said.
“Because the crossings are adjacent to the stations, subway trains travel slowly through them, so the risk of serious injury is reduced.”
Northumbria Police confirmed on Thursday that they had received a report of the crash.
