TRAFFIC and pedestrian movement was slowed down in Stanford-le-Hope this morning after a vehicle hit and damaged a barrier at the rail station.

The incident happened at peak travel time and it is reported that the vehicle was a wagon transporting scaffolding.

There are echoes on an incident in February, when a truck with scaffoling demolished the same barrier. See report and video here.

The incident happened soon after 8am and though the barriers were being marshalled by security staff, traffic was not allowed to cross and pedestrians, including children and parents going to and from schools either side of the crossing on London Road, were advised to use the bridge within the rail station.

Buses were also impacted by the incident, with several waiting at stops either side for the problem to be resolved.

Despite the fact that it is illegal to go through red lights at a rail crossing, several impatient drivers did speed through - putting themselves and any approaching trains at risk. Trains did leave and exit the station at much slower speeds than normal during the incident.

At around 8.45am it was reported traffic was being allowed to use the crossing. Engineers are expected to be on site to repair the damage shortly.

A statement from British Transport Police at 9.44am said: ""We received a report of a vehicle colliding with level crossing barriers in Stanford-le-Hope at 8.28am on 25 April.

"Trains are currently running at a reduced speed through the area while the crossing is repaired. Enquiries into this incident are ongoing."