A LEVEL crossing in York is a potential safety risk, according to a leading York councillor who wants talks over improving it.

Ian Gillies, who leads the Conservative group on City of York Council, has called for discussions to be held with track operator Network Rail after the local elections over the railway crossing at Millfield Lane in Nether Poppleton.

He believes the possibility of the nearby former British Sugar site being developed for housing and the proximity of the new Manor CE School will make the area busier and should be the catalyst for a fresh analysis of how safe the crossing is.

Coun Gillies said: “There is increasing concern regarding the safety measures at this crossing.

“It is currently a half-barrier crossing, but since its installation the new Manor CE School, which is only 100 yards away, has been built. The fact many children now use this crossing would be reason enough to revisit the safety measures. I think we need to open negotiations with Network Rail to discuss these issues.

“While it might be debatable whether such measures are needed now, future development is proposed and, at that point, this will become an even busier crossing than it is now.

“There isn’t a quick or easy solution, and that’s why I’m asking for preparatory work to be carried out by the council and Network Rail so they can budget for any future changes.”