23 November 2012 Last updated at 12:22 ET

Staffordshire and Shropshire rail crossings upgraded

Work has started to upgrade signalling on the rail line between Shrewsbury and Crewe in a £22m project.

Automated systems, monitored from Cardiff, will replace seven manned level crossings including at Wem, Prees and Nantwich.

Network Rail said the work would improve efficiency and lower costs in the long term.

Wem was recently named by the company as one of the worst crossings in the country for people ignoring red lights.

New automated level crossings

• Wem
• Prees
• Harlescott
• Wrenbury
• Nantwich
• Newcastle Rd
• Shrewbridge

Some residents in the town have questioned the safety of replacing the manned crossing with an automated system.

Julie Hoffman said: "I've seen people leap across [the barrier] going over the railway line. At least now we've got a signalman."

John Baker, from Network Rail, said CCTV would be installed and monitored "around the clock", adding that the evidence suggested the changes would "improve safety".

The scheme will also involve signalling equipment being upgraded along the line.