DRIVERS IN Broughty Ferry faced teatime diversions after the level crossing gates at Broughty Ferry station malfunctioned, forcing the closure of a section of Gray Street.

The problem began after one of the four barriers failed in the down position, and motorists and pedestrians were forced to wait while railway staff investigated.

The incident happened shortly before 4 pm and several cars had to be turned back by transport police.

The problem was eventually repaired by Network Rail engineers and the crossing reopened at 7.30 pm.

A spokeswoman for Network Rail said there was no disruption to train services.

A spokesman for Tayside Police said, “The British Transport Police arrived and, once it was realised that the problem was not going to be solved quickly, it was decided to stop the traffic at the Queen Street junction while Tayside Police blocked off the junction with Brook Street.

“Only a few cars were affected and there was little disruption to traffic.”