Rail crime stays at all-time high

Apr 9 2009 by Graham Fraser, Hamilton Advertiser

NEW figures released by Network Rail this week have flagged up Blantyre train station as a crime hotspot.

And the station is also the only troubled area which hasn’t experienced a reduction in the number of criminal incidents during the past year.

Last year, according to Network Rail, 16 incidents were recorded at the station which is on a busy commuter route to Glasgow. That number has remained the same this year, despite a 27 per cent drop in rail crime across Scotland.

Among the incidents reported this year are two acts of vandalism to railway property and trains; one incident of a youngster being caught playing ‘chicken’ with trains, some of which travel at speeds of up to 125 mph; and six incidents of trespassing on the rail tracks.

Passenger safety has been put at risk after reports of four large items were left by vandals on the rail tracks over the last year, including two shopping trolleys and a domestic bin filled with pieces of scrap wood.

According to the figures, young people are responsible for nearly 40 per cent of such crimes in Scotland.

Craig Bowman, a spokesman for Network Rail, said: “It is very worrying. Obviously, all trains have buffers at the front which can knock and deflect things out of the way to a certain extent. But something like this does raise concerns. Children are obviously putting their lives in danger to do these types of things.

“The South Lanarkshire area has had a number of incidents which have caused us concern.”

Blantyre councillor Bert Thomson said he is “very disappointed”.

He added: “I know there is a big effort in the area with initiatives such as Safer Blantyre.

“There is money and time and effort being spent, but the number of incidents of vandalism and trespassing on the railway is disappointing.

Councillor Thomson said a robust response was needed from British Transport Police, adding: “Maybe they should be talking to local elected members and police about this.

“It’s a well-used station, and we want it to be safe and secure for people in the area. People’s safety is paramount.

“As an elected member, I think figures aren’t brought out to sit on a desk, but are brought out to be acted upon.

“I think this particular set of figures should be acted on as a matter of urgency.”

DISAPPOINTING: crime at Blantyre train station remains a cause of serious concern .dmham090409blantyre-1