Barnsley, United Kingdom - May 18, 2025 An emergency closure has been ordered for the Wilthorpe footpath level crossing following dangerous behavior by pedestrians. In the past eight weeks, 15 serious incidents were recorded. Among them, people have been laying down on the live rail, risking their lives. Other reckless acts include holding gates shut to trap others on the tracks, crossing as trains approached or after warnings sounded, and placing ballast on the rails. Andy Cunningham, Network Rail route level crossing manager, described the footage as “truly shocking” and the worst he has seen for disregard of safety. The crossing has limited visibility of approaching trains, making the situation especially dangerous. So far, no fatalities have occurred. Network Rail applied for the closure, which was approved by Barnsley Council on May 15. The closure will last three weeks initially. After that, officials will seek to extend it with a six-month temporary traffic regulation order. The decision aims to prevent accidents and protect the public despite disrupting local routines. Safety remains the top priority for Network Rail.