Cops and council probe dangerous rooftop video

Oct 6 2011 Hamilton Advertiser

COUNCIL officials have launched a probe after stomach-churning footage appeared on the web of yobs traversing the roof of a 170-ft tower.

A one-minute video appeared on YouTube last month shot by a young man who had climbed on to the roof of Dalziel Tower in Motherwell.

The clip – entitled “me on tap ae the tower” – shows the youth filming the views from the 18-storey tower, with much of Muirhouse, Motherwell, Wishaw and the surrounding areas visible.

Then, in an even more frightening manoeuvre, the maniac shuffles his way to the edge of the guttering and films straight down the face of the structure.

At one point, he also appears to stumble but manages to steady himself.

Throughout the film, the cameraman’s nervous friend stands inside a hatch on the roof and attempts to coax his friend back down, shouting: “If you fall, you’re f***ed.”

It is believed the ned gained access to the roof space after damaging locks on the upper floors.

He then would have climbed a ladder to the hatch opening onto the sloping roof.

Now North Lanarkshire Council officials have launched an investigation into how the man gained access.

They have also informed Strathclyde Police of the incident and aim to take action against the reckless yob.

Des Murray, the council’s property services manager said: “After looking at the footage, our officers immediately inspected the tower and discovered damaged locks.

“While the access doors to the roof space were found to be secure, we’re extremely concerned by this vandalism.

“We’ve replaced the damaged locks and as a further precaution, all similar locks at the property are being renewed.

“All our high rise properties are inspected daily and are formally inspected every month in accordance with the Fire Precautions Register.

“This inspection includes checking access points to the roof space.”

He added: “We are carrying out an investigation into how this incident occurred and the matter has been reported to the police.

“The behaviour demonstrated in the footage is irresponsible, as well as criminal, and with the footage provided we hope to act against those responsible.”

A Strathclyde Police spokesman said:“Officers are aware of the incident and are investigating.”

To view the video go our website: www.hamiltonadvertiser.co.uk