Gipsy Lane level crossing in Needham Market to close as works begin on new safe footpath

A new footpath is being built under a Suffolk railway following the death of an 82-year-old woman at a level crossing.

Olive McFarland was killed by a train at the Gipsy Lane crossing, in Needham Market, in 2011 and since then Network Rail implemented speed restrictions and modified the crossing to enhance safety.

Network Rail has now worked with Suffolk County Council to close the crossing and build a safer footpath through private land on both sides of the railway.

This new path will connect to Stowmarket Road and will allow pedestrians to use an existing culvert underpass north of the crossing.

A memorial plaque for Mrs McFarland, agreed with her family, will be placed at the entrance to the culvert.

Lawrence Bowman, Network Rail’s route director for Anglia, said: “This closure has been a long time coming but the new footpath construction is underway and a safer pathway for pedestrians to cross this very busy stretch of railway will be open early next year.

“This will significantly improve safety for everyone who needs to cross the railway at Gipsy Lane and for those working and travelling on it.”

Works on the new footpath will begin this month and is set to be completed by the end of 2024.

Details of a diversion route will be posted at Gipsy Lane and sent out to those living within two miles of the crossing with details of the new route before it closes.