IT is being suggested that radar or CCTV could be used to stop a village near Ludlow being cut on half.

National Rail is concerned about safety and therefore wants to close a road crossing on the main railway line between south Wales and Shrewsbury.

But the problem is that this would result in the village of Ashford Bowdler being effectively cut in half.

Residents have met with rail chiefs to try to find a solution and now Ludlow MP Philip Dunne, who is backing the concerns of villagers, believes that technology could come to the rescue.

The MP followed up the public meeting at which Network Rail learned first-hand about the unanimous opposition of the local community to their proposals to close the level crossing.

He has written to Network Rail officials with his account of the meeting, explaining that there was 100% opposition from all those present to the option to downgrade to a pedestrian crossing only.

The MP urged Network Rail to recommend a renewal to full barriers activated by radar or CCTV as an alternative.

“Network Rail was left in no doubt that local residents will not stand for their village being cut in half and they have my full support,” said Mr Dunne.

“I have pressed Network Rail to recommend a barrier upgrade and I am hopeful that this will be achieved.”