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By Sean Moriarty

Iarnrod Éireann is to trial a new system for operating unmanned level crossings on the Killarney to Mallow line.

A new train detection warning system is in place at the Stagmount level crossing between Rathmore and Barraduff.

The technology, called a 'Decision Support System', will provide users with improved information about the approach of trains and to assist level crossing users on when it is safe or not to cross the line.

The previous set up at Stagmount, known locally as 'The Freemount Gates', involved the opening and closing a double gate before road users cross the rail line.

The idea was put forward after a previous plan to completely close the crossing met with local opposition. The closure would have forced at least 14 households to travel approximately 5kms on back roads to access the N72 road between two East Kerry villages.

“The introduction of a new system of this kind has to comply with a rigorous safety procedure and also requires certification from the Commission of Railway Regulation before going live,” said an Irish Rail spokesperson. “The certification process is now at an advanced stage and we are hopeful that the system will be certified for the operation at this location in the coming months.”