ELECTRONIC gates will finally be installed at Wareham’s notorious pedestrian crossing as a temporary measure which some hope “could become permanent.”

The level crossing hit the headlines nationally last year when it was named and shamed as one of the most misused in the country.

Shocking images released by Network Rail showed pedestrians crossing against the lights – including one woman pushing a pram in front of a moving train.

Watch footage below of people taking risks at the Wareham crossing

However, controversial proposals to close the crossing caused widespread consternation in the town with residents claiming they would be cut off without it.

Months on, a permanent solution still hasn’t been agreed by Dorset County Council and Network Rail, and in the interim the crossing has been manned daily by police and security guards to keep people safe.

But from Monday work begins on electronic gates – precisely what residents have been calling for.

Wareham ward councillor David Budd said: “If it works that may provide us with some evidence or leverage with the powers that be to have it as a permanent solution.”

He added: “I think the vast majority of people will see that as a sensible solution”

The public will be able to open the new electronic gates when it is safe to cross, but they will remain closed when a train is approaching.

A guard housed in a nearby cabin will control the gates manually.

Work will begin on Monday and continue for six to eight weeks.

The council said they hoped to repair and reopen the station footbridge, which was recently closed due to frost damage.

Discussions continue into a long-term solution to the crossing problem. Options include a safe cycleway and footway alongside the A351 Wareham bypass and a new footbridge.