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Monday 11 Dec 2006

NETWORK RAIL RESPONDS TO RAIB REPORT ON STATION PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

Region & Route:

National

Network Rail today acknowledged the work of the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) in producing a thorough report on its investigation into station pedestrian crossings. The investigation referenced the tragedy at Elsenham station on 3 December 2005, in which Olivia Bazlinton and Charlotte Thompson were killed. The investigation has taken note of all the actions already taken to improve safety at station crossings – at Elsenham in particular, where Network Rail has decided to construct a footbridge and introduce a locking system for the pedestrian crossing gates. The report makes clear that the company has begun implementation of recommendations made by the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) in its Formal Inquiry report following the tragedy at Elsenham. Route Director, Jon Wiseman, said: "We thank the RAIB for its work on the issue of station pedestrian crossings. We will give the report’s recommendations careful consideration and respond to these in due course. "The deaths of Charlotte and Olivia were a tragedy, and will never be forgotten. Since December 2005, a number of changes have been made: a second ticket machine has been installed; permanent CCTV cameras are in place; we have arranged for a higher British Transport Police presence at the crossing; and we have held a local awareness campaign to help people understand how to use the crossing correctly and safely. Work has already begun to design a footbridge and locking system for the wicket gates at the station." The RAIB report addresses recommendations to the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR) as the safety authority. Network Rail will provide its response to the ORR after giving the recommendations careful consideration. The ORR will then consider which recommendations in the report should be taken forward.