Network Rail is reminding members of the public crossing the East Coast Main Line to stay alert and safe at level crossings ahead of the December 2025 timetable change.
Launching on Sunday 14 December, the new timetable will see changes to train schedules, including increased frequency and altered timings on several routes. These changes may result in trains passing through level crossings at different times than local users are accustomed to.
With new services and revised train times coming into effect, user vigilance and patience at level crossings is more critical than ever. There are 6,000 level crossings in operation across Britain and every level crossing is different depending on the surroundings and its usage.
Over the last four years there were 109 recorded near miss incidents involving pedestrians and drivers at level crossings along the East Coast route between London King’s Cross and the Scotland border.*
Network Rail is urging the public to stay safe when using level crossings by highlighting the following advice:
- Stop, look, and listen. Every crossing is different so always read the signs and follow the instructions.
- Understand warning signs (lights, barriers, alarms) and obey them fully. Always follow instructions at each level crossing completely.
- Check both ways before crossing. If there is a train coming, wait behind the barrier or marked line until it has passed. Remember there may be more than one train, and they may be coming from different directions.
- Cross quickly and safely. Make sure your exit route is clear and do not stop when crossing.
Network Rail continues to invest in safety improvements at level crossings, including installing new barriers and warning systems, rolling out safety signage and engaging with local schools and communities on user best practice.
The East Coast Main Line connects London with Edinburgh via stations including Newcastle, Durham, York, Doncaster and Stevenage. The new timetable will launch on Sunday 14 December and mean more trains, 60,000 extra seats per week across the route, and quicker journeys.
David Wortley, Network Rail route level crossing manager, said: “Level crossings are a vital part of our railway infrastructure and they demand your full attention, yet complacency and distraction are putting lives at risk.
“With timetable changes coming into effect this December, we urge everyone – whether driving, cycling, or walking – to take extra care and to stop, look, listen and obey the signals every single time. Waiting a few minutes is infinitely better than risking everything.”
Image credit: Network Rail
