‘Horrendous’ gridlock as fault jams Lymington rail crossing gates shut, as Network Rail blames hot weather

MOTORISTS have slammed “horrendous” gridlock in Lymington caused by an ongoing fault at the level crossing.

Network Rail has blamed the hot weather, which has seen the gates at the crossing on Bridge Road jammed shut for periods of several hours today (Tuesday) and yesterday.

Engineers have been on-site trying to repair the fault.

James Marshall was among drivers who found themselves stuck during yesterday evening’s rush hour when traffic tailed back along Marsh Lane.

“I was unaware of the issue with the train gates,” James said.

“The issue is further worsened by the lack of distance from the gates to the Gosport Street roundabout.

“I was unfortunately sat in traffic for 15 minutes which is rare to be stuck that long in Lymington, from my own account.”

Residents shared their frustrations onlibne, with one writing: “Marsh lane is gridlock, 20 minutes to get from roundabout at Ampress end of Marsh Lane to barely halfway down.

“Avoid the area if you can. People heading towards town via Marsh Lane were turning around to try and leave town.”

The situation was said to have been exacerbated by roadworks on the A337 Southampton Road, towards the Monkey Brewhouse.

Further disruption ensued today, with the fault again reported around lunchtime.

Another resident quipped: “Never had this problem in the old days with signal box and a man winding a wheel to shut the gates.”

A Network Rail spokesperson told the A&T: "Due to the hot weather conditions, a fault has occurred at Lymington level crossing.

“Engineers are on site trying to fix it. We apologise for any inconvenience this has caused and thank residents for their patience."