The temporary closure of a level crossing where 14-year-old Josh Travis was struck and killed by a train will remain in place for a further six months, officials have confirmed. The Chestnut Grove footpath crossing in Burton Joyce was initially shut for 21 days following the tragedy on Wednesday, 26 November, but authorities have now agreed an extension while wider decisions about its future are considered.

Emergency services were called to the line at around 7pm that evening after reports of a casualty on the tracks. Despite the efforts of paramedics, Josh – a former Nottingham Forest academy goalkeeper – was pronounced dead at the scene. Nottingham Forest FC, its academy, and Burton Joyce FC were among those who later paid tribute to the teenager.

Network Rail had previously raised concerns about safety at Chestnut Grove and formally asked Nottinghamshire County Council to authorise a closure months before the incident. Although upgrades were made in 2021, including new gates, an improved surface and CCTV installation, footage later captured several near misses. The company can only close the crossing permanently with local authority approval, and consultations on rights of way, safety and the wider community impact are required.

A public consultation, opened less than a week before Josh’s death, is due to run until 22 December. With the initial emergency order approaching expiry, a new temporary traffic regulation order has now been granted, keeping the route closed until 26 May next year.

In an announcement on Wednesday, councillors Sam Smith and Mike Adams confirmed the extension and stated: “For the avoidance of doubt, we will not support it reopening without a bridge being built.”

A spokesperson for Network Rail also said:

“A temporary traffic regulation order (TTRO) for the public footpath over Chestnut Grove level crossing has been approved by the local authority. This will come into effect on December 18, immediately following the emergency closure period, and lasts until May 26, 2026. Our application for the crossing to be permanently closed will continue to follow the local authority’s process in the meantime.”

The incident has intensified debate over safety responsibilities at level crossings and renewed calls for long-term solutions to protect pedestrians using the route.

Image: Network Rail