A footpath in north Powys has reopened after four years of work to improve safety at a nearby level crossing.

A safety notice was issued in 2016 by the Office of Road and Rail, leading to the Fron level crossing in Forden being closed to the public.

Since then work has been going on to make the crossing, on the Welshpool to Newtown line, safer. Now that work has been completed at last, meaning the footpath and crossing have reopeend.

Engineers for Network Rail have moved signalling equipment on the line so that trains no longer stop on the level crossing itself, making the path safer and more accessible for the public. The changes are also intended to improve performance of train times, reduce delays and improve safety of the crossing.

Cllr Aled Davies, deputy leader and cabinet member for countryside services, said “I am delighted that these improvements have now been completed and thank you to Network Rail for providing such a great service.

“The footpath and level crossing are now available for public use once again, and walkers are free to use the area safely.”

Phil Cuddihy, project manager at Network Rail, added: “We know that this footpath is very popular with local residents and visitors to the area, so we’re delighted we’ve been able to support its reopening.

“I’d like to thank Powys County Council, and the local community, for bearing with us while we worked to make the level crossing safer.”

The bodies both reminded the public to take care when using level crossings.