Urgent warning to delivery drivers after 'near misses' at level crossing in Fife

An urgent safety warning has gone out to drivers after multiple near misses with delivery vehicles at a private level crossing in Fife.

Since January, Network Rail said there has been “two near misses” at the Hospital Mill level crossing near Springfield, Fife where train drivers were forced to sound their horn and slam on the brakes because drivers ignored warning lights and alarms and drove onto the tracks.

In the wake of these close calls, Network Rail Scotland and the British Transport Police are raising awareness of the dangers of misusing level crossings.

“It’s alarming to see people put themselves and the travelling public in such danger by ignoring the warning lights at a level crossing,” Steven Griffin, level crossing manager at Network Rail Scotland said.

“The rules on using Hospital Mill level crossing are not optional. They clearly set out when it’s safe to cross and when it’s not. Too often, we’re seeing these rules, and ultimately safety, completely disregarded.”

Network Rail said there has been more than 150 incidents at the Hospital Mill level crossing in the last five years where users left the barriers raised after driving across. Eighteen of those have happened in 2025.

With more than 70 trains passing the Fife crossing every day at speeds of up to 85mph, Inspector Ashley Forbes from the British Transport Police said there is “simply no excuse” for misusing a level crossing and ignoring safety procedures.

“Trying to beat the system or failing to pay attention not only puts your own life at risk, but also the lives of the passengers and staff of the oncoming train,” she said.

Hospital Mill level crossing near Springfield, Fife Network Rail Scotland

The private crossing is manually operated by those who use it. Drivers are instructed to lift the barrier, cross safely, and lower it again once on the other side.

“We’re urging all users to be sensible, avoid unnecessary risk, and use level crossings responsibly. We’ve written to the authorised users of Hospital Mill level crossing, reminding them of their duty to instruct visitors to their homes and delivery drivers on its safe use,” Mr Griffin said.

Inspector Forbes added: “The railways can be incredibly dangerous, which is why people need to do the right thing when using railway level crossings and treat them with respect. If you see anyone failing to adhere to the safety procedures and putting themselves and others in harm’s way, I urge you to report it to us by texting 61016 or by calling us. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”