POLICE patrols will be stepped up at a pedestrian railway crossing that could close because of abuse.

The pedestrian crossing at Wareham station is under threat because of people dicing with death as they ignore the red warning signals and audio warnings.

Now, while it continues discussions with district and town councils, the community and disability groups, Dorset County Council, along with British Transport Police and Network Rail, has agreed to increase police supervision of the crossing to make sure people use it properly.

A spokesman said: “Following its independent assessment of CCTV evidence showing widespread abuse of the crossing, the Office of Rail Regulation has urged Network Rail and the county council to take immediate action to reduce the high risk of fatality.

“The Office of Rail Regulation says if any further abuse takes place it will use its powers to require immediate closure of the crossing.

“As a consequence, it’s expected the level crossing will be closed on public safety grounds.

“The county council is currently investigating long-term alternative options as well as interim transport arrangements for people with limited mobility.”

A campaign has now been launched by residents to keep the crossing open, as they say closing it would leave mums with prams, the elderly and disabled with no other option but to use the footbridge, effectively cutting Wareham in two.

A petition has been launched asking for people’s preferred options and the results will be known soon.

Suggested alternatives include: a new footbridge with ramps; adding ramps to the existing bridge: locking magnetic gates; and a subway and lifts.

David Budd, a Wareham town and county councillor and leader of Purbeck District Council, said: “As I understand it the Office of Rail Regulation has said something has to be done immediately to reduce the risk.”

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