By Suggitt’s Lane crossing still under consideration
The crossing on Suggitt’s Lane continues to be under consideration, as the council alleges they are doing ‘all they can’ to find a suitable alternative.
Last year, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the Suggitt’ss Lane crossing is “never far from his thoughts” after Cleethorpes MP Martin Vickers called for an urgent review of the closure of the crossing by Network Rail in April.
The controversial closure went ahead despite fervent opposition from local residents.
During his leadership campaign, he told the public that if he became Prime Minister, he would ensure the crossing was reopened.
However, the popular crossing remains closed.
Residents now have to go over Fuller Street Bridge, which has 77 steps and no disabled access, or travel via a half an hour diversion along Grimsby Road and Issac’s Hill in order to access the sea front.
Works to find a suitable alternative to the Suggitt’s Lane railway crossing are ongoing, according to North East Lincolnshire Council.
Discussing the current situation yesterday, Councillor Stewart Swinburn, said:
“The administration continues to work with Network Rail on a solution to enable crossing the railway line adjacent to Suggitt’s Lane.
“The administration was presented with an ‘outline’ design option on 27 May, 2020, where initial feedback and comments were provided to Network Rail, and the administration has agreed ‘in principle’ for Network Rail to progress into detailed design stage.
“Detailed designs are due back from Network Rail late October. Network Rail has incurred some delays due to Covid-19.
“Funding for the proposal is yet to be finalised followed by public engagement before progress is made through the planning process. Anticipated duration of fabrication and construction will take 32 weeks, including 22 weeks for works on site.
“We are doing all we can to bring an alternative crossing to Suggitt’s Lane.”
