CAMPAIGNERS are demanding that a level crossing be kept open to the public, insisting that alternative walking routes are less safe.

More than 1,000 residents have backed a petition to keep the crossing linking Alicia Walk and Beauchamps Drive, Shotgate, on the edge of Wickford.

The crossing could be shut off as Network Rail raised concerns about more people using the crossing due to plans for 250 homes nearby.

Residents Pam and John Girling use the crossing every day.

Mrs Girling said: "We walk across it to go to the chemist and doctors, and it's much easier than going to other places. I have emailed Network Rail about this. We really hope it isn't shut to the public. We, and so many others, use this route for shops and other services. We've lived here more than 50 years, and it's an important route."

Councillor Malcolm Buckley raised concerns about more people using their cars as the journey will be longer if the crossing is shut.

He added: "People are telling us it's also about inconvenience. It's used a lot by schoolchildren from Beauchamps High School and Hilltop Infant School. If people walk around Southend Road, it'll add around 40 minutes to people's journey."

He insisted the crossing is a safer walking route than nearby roads and pavements.

It comes after plans were agreed for 250 homes on land off Bakers Farm Close, Southend Road, Shotgate. Martin Grant Limited was given the green light for the development by Basildon Borough Council in November.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: "We are aware of the concerns many local residents have about Beauchamps public footpath level crossing. As a statutory consultee on any planning proposals that affect level crossing use, we have asked for planning conditions to be applied to a developer's proposals to address the safety risk from more people using the crossing.

"We will continue to work with the Council and the developer to maintain the safety of the railway for everyone and find a solution that can work for the Council, the developer and the local community."