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Update from 09 October 2025: We are delighted that Wiltshire councillors have rejected Network Rail’s proposed closure of the Penleigh level-crossing in Westbury. The Western Area Planning Committee unanimously opposed the plan at its meeting on 8 October (you can watch it here).
The proposal was to close the direct, 20-metre path across the railway and instead to force walkers to use a circuitous one-kilometre diversion, via Oldfield Road, Bridge Court, Station Road, and Amazon Way. There were 45 objections to the consultation, and objectors included officials from Wiltshire Council, the Ramblers, Open Spaces Society, and Westbury Town Council.
We have called on Wiltshire councillors to reject the Network Rail’s proposed closure of the Penleigh level-crossing in Westbury. The Western Area Planning Committee will consider the plan on 8 October.
Photo: Open Spaces Society
The proposal is to close the direct, 20-metre path across the railway and instead to force walkers to use a circuitous one-kilometre diversion, via Oldfield Road, Bridge Court, Station Road, and Amazon Way. There were 45 objections to the consultation, and objectors included officials from Wiltshire Council, the Ramblers, Open Spaces Society, and Westbury Town Council.
The Open Spaces Society objected because the route is extremely popular and well used, being the most convenient access from the new housing development towards the town and local amenities. Closure of the crossing would be contrary to the public interest, discouraging people from walking and forcing them into cars, which is bad for their health and well-being, and damaging to the environment.
Network Rail’s grounds for closure are safety, but the alternative route is far more dangerous to the public, alongside busy roads.
Other objectors made similar points. The report to the council by Ali Roberts, rights-of-way officer, sets out the arguments and, because of the number of objections, asks councillors to decide.
Says Kate Ashbrook, our general secretary: ‘This is a disastrous proposal, putting the public at great inconvenience and risk. If Network Rail considers the crossing dangerous it should make it safer, not close it. We urge councillors to reject this plan.’