§ 93. Captain STRICKLANDasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the Southern Railway Company is denying access to a road situated on the outskirts of the town of Crawley by closing the level crossing gates throughout the night; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of TRANSPORT (Captain Austin Hudson)My right hon. Friend is aware that between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. it is necessary to ring the bell to call the gateman to open the gates near Crawley on the Horsham Road (A. 278), but he has no power to require the railway company to alter their arrangements at this crossing. He has, however, agreed to make a grant towards the cost of a bypass and new bridge over the railway close to this point, work on which is to commence on 1st April.
§ Captain STRICKLANDCan my hon. and gallant Friend say whether this is a public highway or whether it belongs to the railway company, and, if so, by what right the railway company can close it?
§ Captain HUDSONIt is a public highway, but I should like to have notice of the second part of my hon. and gallant Friend's supplementary question.
§ Brigadier-General CLIFTON-BROWNIs my hon. and gallant Friend aware that another level crossing is within 100 yards in the town?