strail Level Crossing for Heavy Loads
New level crossing on Vine Road after 30 years: a long service life
New heavy-duty strail crossing on Vine Road

34 Years in Service: The Durability of the strail Level Crossing in London

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KRAIBURG STRAIL

In March 1991, the Vine Road level crossing in Barnes (Wessex Route, London) was equipped with the strail level crossing system. What followed was more than three decades of proven performance under real operating conditions. Despite the constant heavy demands of London’s busy urban traffic and frequent bus services, the system has continued to perform flawlessly and reliably to this day.

Planned Replacement After More Than 30 Years

After 34 years in service, the inner and outer panels were replaced—not because the level crossing system had reached the end of its service life, but as part of a scheduled track renewal project involving the replacement of the rails and sleepers.

Ready for the Decades Ahead

To ensure the level crossing continues to withstand heavy traffic for many years to come, it has now been upgraded with the latest technology:

  • New strail level crossing panels: A robust, highly durable level crossing system with steel T-profiles, providing a robust interface between road and rail.
  • Enhanced safety: Kestrel thermoplastic road markings have been applied directly to the surface of the level crossing. This proven marking solution provides high visibility and supports safer use by all road users.

The London project is a compelling demonstration of the system’s outstanding long-term performance and highlights the life-cycle cost efficiency of durable railway infrastructure.

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