Media centre

Thursday 10 Jun 2021

Public warned over level crossing misuse in Angus

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Network Rail Scotland and British Transport Police (BTP) are raising awareness of the dangers of misusing level crossings following a series of incidents at Barry West and Balcathie level crossings.

Today (June 10) is International Level Crossing Awareness Day and the Barry West crossing has been identified as one with a worrying history of misuse.

Since May 2020 there have been six serious incidents of misuse reported at Barry West including:

• three incidents where vehicles ignored the lowering barriers
• one incident where a pensioner and two children crossed against the lights.

In the same period at the Balcathie crossing there were four incidents, including one where a digger was driven over the crossing without permission.

Angus South MSP Graeme Dey said: “It is absolutely imperative that in using level crossings pedestrians and drivers exercise care and responsibility. I am concerned to learn that two of the mis-used crossings in Scotland are here in Angus South and would encourage anyone and everyone using these and others to do so carefully.”

Liam Sumpter, Network Rail Route Director for Scotland, said: “Misusing a level crossing can be incredibly dangerous. By paying attention to the warnings at crossings and avoiding distractions, we can all keep ourselves out of harm’s way.

“We work closely with British Transport Police to raise awareness of the dangers of misusing crossings and with local councils and other stakeholders to educate the public on how to stay safe near the railway.”

BTP Temporary Chief Superintendent Gill Murray said: “Each year, hundreds of people take risks on and around the railway, resulting in tragic consequences and life-changing injuries.

“We are continuing to proactively patrol the railway network across Scotland.  Safety is our number one priority and we’re reminding everyone of the importance of taking care around the railway and that everyone loses when you step on the track.”

ILCAD marks the start of Network Rail’s summer safety campaigns which will see the railway industry work with BTP, councils, the Scottish Football Association and charities to raise awareness of rail safety in communities across Scotland.