Plans are underway to potentially widen the Cathole Bridge Road level crossing in rural Somerset to create a new pedestrian link, following the approval of 145 new homes nearby. The crossing, situated just south of Crewkerne near the Somerset-Dorset border, sits east of the Crewkerne tunnel, which recently underwent emergency repairs after a landslip in December 2023.
This essential crossing provides a safe route connecting Crewkerne with the neighbouring village of Misterton over the London Waterloo to Exeter St. David’s line, operated by the newly nationalised South Western Railway (SWR), which runs an hourly service in both directions.
In July, Network Rail submitted an application to Somerset Council requesting a reroute of a nearby public right of way to cross the level crossing, removing an unsignalled pedestrian path between the crossing and the tunnel. If approved, this diversion could be in place as early as summer 2026.
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To discuss these proposals, Network Rail will host a drop-in event at the Henhayes Centre in Crewkerne on Wednesday, January 28th, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The announcement was shared by local pressure group Space4Crewkerne, highlighting the importance of community feedback on the planned changes.
Currently, the footpath branches south of Cathole Bridge Road near the Lang Road junction, crosses the railway, and continues southward before rejoining Cathole Bridge Road via a local track. The proposed diversion would redirect the footpath to follow Cathole Bridge Road itself until it meets the end of the track.
Cathole Bridge Road, lacking pavements and lined with high hedges, often functions as a shortcut for pedestrians heading to Crewkerne railway station, located within the parish of Misterton. This new pedestrian link aims to improve safety and accessibility for local residents, especially with the recent housing development increasing foot traffic.
Somerset Council has yet to announce a timeline for its decision on Network Rail’s application, but the proposed improvements demonstrate ongoing efforts to enhance local infrastructure in response to community growth.