Great response to petition calling for Dalwhinnie level crossing to be reopened
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Ramblers Scotland has said that more than 3000 people have signed their petition in just 24 hours calling for the re-opening of the Ben Alder crossing at Dalwhinnie.
The charity said that it hopes that Network Rail is 'beginning to reflect upon the depth of feeling on this issue'.
A spokesman said: “We’re hugely grateful to the 3,200 people who have already signed our joint petition, just 24 hours since it launched.
“We encourage many more people to help us stand up for our hard-won access rights by signing and sharing it.
“The huge early response shows the depth of feeling on this issue, from a diverse range of local and national voices.
“We hope that Network Rail will reflect upon its high-handed actions - and reopen the gates immediately.”
He added: "Obviously we’d love everyone in the strath to get involved – as every signature helps us make a stronger case for reopening the crossing."
The petition states:
"On 28 July 2021, Network Rail locked its level crossing at Dalwhinnie without consulting residents, local authorities or outdoor groups.
This petition calls for Network Rail to urgently reopen the gates to allow a proper consultation with the community and recreational interests.
It's unacceptable and high-handed decision aims to stop residents, walkers, cyclists, horse-riders and others using the historic track going west from Dalwhinnie towards stunning lochs, glens and hills - including much-loved Ben Alder.
Network Rail's actions fails to reflect the huge public interest in the level crossing, nor do they adhere to its own pledge 'to work collaboratively and sensitively' with communities living near the railway.
This decision has united the local community and wider outdoor interests - and is supported by Ramblers Scotland, British Horse Society, Cycling UK in Scotland, Mountaineering Scotland and ScotWays.
The route pre-dates the railway and has been used for generations. Core paths lead up to the railway on either side and the track links to a local path network that has been developed to the west of the line by the local community.
We understand that vehicular access to the local estate will continue over the crossing so, if this can be achieved safely, why not for walkers, cyclists and others?
Network Rail is turning the railway into an impenetrable barrier for most people in the nearby village – contrary to the spirit of our hard-won Scottish access rights. This leads us to question the basis on which the crossing has been closed.
We consider this closure to be disrespectful of the local community and wider public interest and to show a complete misunderstanding of the basis on which access is taken in Scotland. Find out more about Ramblers Scotland's position here.
We call on Network Rail to urgently reconsider its decision - and unlock the gates."
The petition can be found here
