An emergency closure of the Brookside footpath level crossing in Dinas Powys will take effect from Friday 26 June after a safety review found a heightened risk to users at the busy Vale of Glamorgan line crossing.

Network Rail said it has made the difficult but necessary decision to shut the crossing to all users while longer-term options are explored to protect public safety.

The footpath crossing links Brookside and Castle Close and sits on a particularly busy stretch of railway, with around 150 trains passing daily and approximately 217 people using the crossing each day.

Trains would ordinarily run at up to 50mph through the area, but a temporary 10mph speed restriction was introduced following a recent assessment to reduce risk and keep services operating safely.

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While this slower line speed is an important safety measure, it has led to trains moving more slowly and remaining in the vicinity for longer, which can increase noise and impact nearby homes.

Further assessments have identified a significant change in the risk profile at Brookside, with a rising proportion of older people and users with mobility difficulties—some of whom may need more time to cross safely than is currently available.

More than 56% of users are considered vulnerable, including older people, young families with pushchairs and those with reduced mobility. Combined with the high volume of rail and pedestrian traffic, the site is now classed as high risk, requiring immediate action.

From Friday 26 June, Network Rail will install secure fencing at the crossing entrances, along with clear signage confirming the closure.

During the closure, alternative crossing points are available:

- Murch Lane road bridge

- Stepped footbridge at Eastbrook station

The crossing will remain shut while longer-term options are developed. Network Rail will continue engaging with local stakeholders, community representatives and accessibility groups to help shape future decisions and ensure the highest possible safety standards for users and the wider railway.