RAILWAY chiefs have been forced to modify new gates designed to improve safety at a crossing in Watchet following complaints about noise.

Installing 'closures' on the steel structures to eradicate the clanging sound when they are opened and shut has cost West Somerset Railway £500.

The heritage line sparked controversy when it replaced the previous flashing lights system at the Goviers Lane crossing - not just because of the complaints over noise.

Local people claim the gates have effectively closed off a vital access route to the town for people in wheelchairs and buggies or those with pushchairs because they are impossible to open unaided.

But although the WSR has responded to the noise concerns with the recent modifications, the accessibility issue remains unresolved.

Resident Clive Gray said the success of the 'closures', which were fitted earlier this week, was being monitored.

"The gates have been in place for around six weeks now and we do wonder why it has taken the railway so long to make these changes," said Mr Gray.

"Although we are pleased that this action has been taken, we want people to know that we haven't given up the fight on the accessibility issue.

"The battle most definitely goes on and we are challenging it under disability legislation."

Protesters have launched a petition and carried out a snapshot survey of local views in a bid to gather support for either the removal of the gates or the installation of a push button opening device.

WSR general manager Paul Conibeare said the issue of accessibility was now in the hands of the company's solicitors.

But he said he hoped people would be pleased with the response to the noise complaints.

"We have made these modifications and we believe they resolve the noise issue.

"The gates now close more slowly and I hope people will appreciate the efforts we have made."

Previously, Mr Conibeare said the lights had been replaced because they had been subject to regular vandalism and often did not work.

The new gates conformed to National Network standards for foot crossings and their installation had been guided by Her Majesty's Inspectorate.