Danger warning issued by British Transport Police after series of incidents at Inverness railway crossing

A WARNING has been issued to people using the railway level crossing at South Kessock after a series of incidents there.

Network Rail Scotland and British Transport Police (BTP) issued the warning of the dangers of misusing railway crossings in the run up to International Level Crossing Awareness Day (ILCAD) on Thursday (June 9).

The South Kessock crossing, near the Merkinch Nature Reserve, has been identified as having "a worrying history of misuse including vulnerable people crossing, such as the elderly and people with prams, as well as young children using the crossing while still on their bicycles."

The crossing is on a popular walk and cycle route to the mouth of the Caledonian Canal and Clachnaharry village.

Liam Sumpter, Network Rail route director for Scotland, said: “Misusing a level crossing can be incredibly dangerous. Ignoring warning signs and instructions can have devastating repercussions and we want to warn people not to put their lives at risk

“We work closely with BTP 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.”

Inspector Michael Magee, BTP, 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, and charities to raise awareness of rail safety in communities across Scotland.

This year’s railway safety slogan is: “Don’t put your life at risk, stay away from tracks!” – a hard-hitting message to reflect many countries reporting an increase in inappropriate behaviour at level crossings and near the railway during and since the pandemic.

Team members from both organisations plan to attend the crossing on June 9, to remind the public of the importance of rail safety and of staying away from the tracks.

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