Costain is to develop a new type of enhancing warning technology to reduce the risk at level crossings.

Around five people are killed every year at level crossings in Britain, with many more reported near misses. The new warning devices will detect an oncoming train and provide an audible and visible warning to alert users.

Network Rail awarded the contract for the project, with development on the first units expected to be installed in the next 12 months.


Work is already underway to design and develop the Meerkat solution. When developed and approved, the Meerkat contract will see the technology installed at sites across Britain over the next five years.

Andrew Wyllie CBE, chief executive at Costain, said: "Maintaining safety on the rail network is an important focus and the award of this contract demonstrates how smart infrastructure solutions can help save lives."

Allan Spence, head of passenger and public safety at Network Rail, added: "This is an important project which will help further reduce level crossing risk across the network. Meerkat will give users information on whether it is safe to cross and allow us to replace hundreds of Victorian 'whistleboards’ – helping line side neighbours as well as improving safety."

(CM/CD)