DEGANWY residents are being called to a public meeting to help oppose the closure of a pedestrian crossing over the Llandudno railway line

A planning inquiry is to be held later this year after Network Rail appealed against Conwy planners’ opposition to the closure of the crossing over the railway line close to Warren Drive and Glan y Mor Road, Deganwy.

A public meeting is to be held by Guto Bebb MP and cllr Mike Priestley next Friday at Llanrhos Old Schoolroom, from 5.30pm until 6.30pm, to advise residents of the arguments they have already presented to the Planning Inspectorate.

Guto Bebb said: “If residents feel they have additional evidence that supports the case, or if they wish to make representations of their own, we will tell them in the meeting how to go about it. The Planning Inspectorate needs to receive further representations no later than February 26.

“It is essential we co-ordinate our evidence and efforts to present a cohesive argument to the Planning Inspector, and ensure the same evidence is not presented with different interpretations that could damage the case”.

Cllr Mike Priestley said: “I am working with everyone involved to right this wrong, and ensure as many as possible residents come forward with evidence to support our case to get the crossing re-opened.”

Cllr Sue Shotter, who also represents Deganwy on Conwy council said: “I and residents were angered to find the footpath over the railway tracks had been closed overnight without consultation.

"After much pressure by residents and cllrs and our MP about the lack of consultation we will now have the opportunity to put our views forward at the public meeting and subsequent inquiry.”

AM Janet Finch-Saunders explained how the issue developed, she said: “The closure of the pedestrian crossing by stealth, in the early hours of the morning and without any notice or consultation of residents in 2011, continues to be a major concern.

“I understand Network Rail originally made the decision to close the route due to health and safety issues, I have strong reason to believe it is a public right of way.

“Even though Conwy council endeavoured to address the problem with a map modification order in 2016, Network Rail objected, leading to the public inquiry.

“I cannot express enough my disappointment at the length of time this has taken to address”.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: “We are aware of the submission relating to the former level crossing on Warren Road in Deganwy. With the public inquiry due later this year, it would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage.”