Network Rail is urging the public to stay safe as the Heol-y-Deliad level crossing, near Margam, reopens following essential works to improve safety.
The crossing, which carries a public footpath over the South Wales Main Line, was temporarily closed in June 2025 due to repeated incidents of unsafe behaviour by members of the public - including people forcing entry through fencing and even carrying bicycles with children strapped in over the locked gates.
Since the closure, Network Rail’s CCTV and on-site security teams recorded 61 incidents of trespass at the location, underlining the need for further deterrents.
On the South Wales Main Line, trains travel at speeds of up to 125 miles per hour, meaning it can take only seconds for a train to reach the crossing - leaving anyone who misuses it with little or no time to react.
To improve safety and help prevent future misuse, Network Rail has:
• Installed 2.4 metre high palisade fencing on both sides of the crossing to deter people from climbing or carrying items over the crossing
• Enhanced warning and safety signage
The crossing lies provides access to land near the coast, where ongoing misuse by members of the public has created significant safety concerns, including repeated incidents of people attempting to cross using motorised or electric-powered vehicles - which are strictly prohibited on public footpaths, inclusive of those that cross the railway.
Network Rail is reminding everyone that no journey, photograph or surf session is worth risking your life for.
“We know how important this route is to the local community, but the level of misuse we were seeing was deeply concerning”, said Dean Jenkins, Level Crossing Manager at Network Rail Wales and Borders roue.
“We’ve had people ignoring safety instructions, climbing fences and even carrying bikes with children attached across a live railway. These behaviours are extremely dangerous - trains travel at high speeds and cannot stop quickly.
“We want to thank everyone for their patience while we’ve carried out this work, and we urge everyone to always use level crossings safely and responsibly.”
Network Rail continues to work closely with DB Cargo UK, Tata Steel and Neath Port Talbot Council to ensure the long-term safety and accessibility of the area, including discussions around the public right of way to the beach.
Level crossing safety reminder
• Always stop, look and listen before crossing.
• Only cross when you’re sure there are no trains approaching.
• Never climb, force or go around gates or barriers.
• Do not use bikes, e-scooters or motorised vehicles to cross.
• If you see anyone misusing a level crossing, report it immediately to Network Rail’s 24-hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41.