Worthing level crossing failure adds to long-running concerns

A failure at the South Farm Road level crossing in Worthing on Friday morning caused traffic disruption in both directions, renewing concerns about delays at local crossings.

Residents have long raised frustrations about Worthing’s level crossings at South Farm Road and South Street in Tarring, with some pedestrians reporting waits of more than 15 minutes. A petition launched earlier this year by local resident Scott Martin called for a footbridge at South Farm Road, arguing that people are often “trapped” at the barriers.

Network Rail has said the crossings are heavily used, with at least eight trains per hour passing through during the day. It explained that barriers are sometimes kept down between trains if another is approaching from the opposite direction, adding that the signaller’s primary role is to keep people safe. West Sussex County Council said it has no current plans for a footbridge but is open to exploring new crossing facilities as part of its active travel strategy.

The railway through Worthing links Brighton and London with Chichester, Bognor Regis, Portsmouth and Southampton. Network Rail said each crossing is fitted with CCTV, lights and barriers for safety, and signallers aim to minimise disruption to drivers while ensuring safe operation.