21.02.12 for immediate release: Bexhill and Battle MP, Greg Barker, visited the Network Rail signal box at Robertsbridge Station last Friday to see for himself why the crossing needs to remain closed at the station for several minutes. Greg was joined by his constituent Mr Henry Macdonald who had contacted him about the lengthy wait for motorists at the level crossing. Greg observed the experienced signal operator in action whilst Network Rail staff explained that there were several factors which have an effect on the time the level crossing remains closed. The Robertsbridge signal box manually controls and monitors four level crossings, including Etchingham Station. The key priorities for the operator are public safety and to ensure the trains have a clear passage on the line to avoid delays to the service. Speaking at Robertsbridge Greg said “I am grateful to Network Rail for this fascinating insight into the work of signal operators at Robertsbridge. It is a hugely responsible role which requires the operator to be extremely vigilant to avoid possible dangers to the public and to ensure the line runs smoothly. I understand that in due course all signals and level crossings on this line will become automatic as part of a major national project by Network Rail and this will make the level crossing down times slightly shorter. However, I am assured that the signals and level crossings which are operated in the best possible way under the present system to ensure that safety remains paramount and the trains serving my constituents run on time.”