Jess Brown-Fuller calls for automated barriers at Chichester city centre level crossings

Jess Brown-Fuller MP has written to Network Rail to request an assessment of automating the barriers at the Stockbridge and Whyke Road level crossings in the city centre.

These barriers are currently manually operated out of Chichester’s signal box and are down for more than fifty percent of every hour, causing severe congestion throughout the city centre.

Jess said:

“The impact on residents, commuters, and businesses is considerable, with routine journeys significantly disrupted.”

“As somebody who shares that frustration with my constituents, with the train gates often impacting my ability to move around the constituency swiftly, it is something I am keen to see improved during my time as the Member of Parliament.”

Jess has previously met with officials at Network Rail to share residents’ frustrations and discuss solutions. In July 2025, she visited the signal box at Chichester train station to better understand the decisions made by signallers to lower the barriers and when to raise them.

Jess noted:

“While recognising the commitment signal operators show to public safety and the smooth delivery of the service, it is also important to acknowledge that some operators may take a more cautious approach to opening the barriers in-between trains, which can create significant delays.”

Network Rail is investing in its signalling technology over the next five years, and Jess has asked for reassurances that Chichester will benefit from these works. She has also requested details of any improvements at the Whyke and Stockbridge level crossings, including consideration of automating the barriers.

Jess' letter to Network Rail