Network Rail is to write to more than 740 residents in Llanelli to tell them about vital safety improvements to two level crossings in the town.

The company needs to undertake essential renewal works near to their property to help provide a safe, reliable and efficient railway.

Network Rail intends to replace the barriers; lights; and associated crossing equipment with modern equivalents as well as installing new under road crossing equipment (URX) at both the east and west crossings in Llanelli.

The crossing box at Llanelli West is also being removed and control of the crossings transferred to the company’s signalling control centre at Port Talbot on 3 December. Eventually, the crossings will be controlled from Network Rail’s Cardiff rail operating centre.

Between October 2011 and May this year, Network Rail has logged 39 incidents at Llanelli East and 13 incidents at Llanelli West involving people who try to cross the railway line while the safety barriers are in operation.

Robin Basu, community relations manager for Wales, said: “This scheme will mean improved reliability at the crossings as the new equipment will be subject to less down time resulting from failure.

“Additionally, the crossing at Llanelli West will be further improved as we are providing four barriers, as opposed to the two which are currently there.

“Safety is our number one priority and for this reason work of this type must be carried out while trains are not running. We are obliged to work, whenever possible, at times that cause the least disruption to train services. This means carrying out a lot of our improvements during the night and at weekends.”

A number of road closures are being planned to allow these works to happen, subject to final approvals from county highways.

Mr Basu added: “The equipment we use means some disturbance is unavoidable, but we will make every effort to minimise any unnecessary noise. Those working on site are briefed on working responsibly.”

Network Rail apologises for any inconvenience these essential works may cause. However, if residents have any additional questions or concerns, they should visit www.networkrail.co.uk