1999-09-02 Train operators are committed to reducing SPADs (ATOC)

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date 11 November 1999
source ATOC
type Press release

Keith Hill MP, Minister for Transport in London today (Nov 11th) unveiled a plaque at Kings Cross station recognising the station's achievement in gaining accreditation under the government's Secure Stations Scheme. City Thameslink and Fenchurch Street stations were also awarded accreditation certificates at the ceremony.

The Secure Stations Scheme, launched by government last year, is complemented by the rail industry's own Code of Practice - 'Personal Security for Rail Travellers' - which was formally launched today.

All the bodies involved in drawing up the code - Railtrack, the Association of Train Operators (ATOC), London Underground and the British Transport Police, were represented at the unveiling ceremony.

The rail industry is investing £39 million to improve personal security for rail travellers throughout the network. Security initiatives include:

o More CCTV cameras
o Improved lighting
o More security guards
o Improved customer information systems
o Video camera surveillance of many car parks

New passenger security initiatives at Kings Cross and Fenchurch Street stations include a comprehensive closed circuit TV system, increased security staff presence on the station and the installation of customer information systems and help buttons.

New passenger security initiatives at City Thameslink include extra CCTV cameras, increased staff presence on the station, installation of mirrors to allow passengers to see round corners and improved signage.

Railtrack owns and manages the 14 largest rail stations in the UK and has already achieved accreditation for Glasgow Central and Victoria. It is committed to achieving accreditation for all 14 stations by the end of next year.

Deborah Richards, Head of Railtrack Major Stations said: 'We are delighted with the accreditation of Kings Cross. Railtrack is fully committed to the DETR secure stations initiative, and we are on target to achieve accreditations at all 14 stations by the end of 2000.'

George Muir, Director General of the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) said: 'The train operators are united in their determination to make rail travel a secure and pleasant experience for the whole community. That means doing everything we can to guarantee the well-being of passengers when they use the stations on the network. The accreditation of King's Cross, Fenchurch Street and City Thameslink stations are significant milestones, and comparable measures are being taken at stations throughout the country.'



-ENDS-

Media representatives are welcome to attend the ceremony, which will take place at 9.15am on 11th November 1999 beside Platforms 9 and 10 at Kings Cross Station.

For more information, please contact:

Lucy Twitchin, ATOC Tel 0171 904 3010
Valerie Gillingham, The Rowland Company Tel 0171 436 4060
Linda Davies, Davies Communications Tel 0171 482 8844

Railhub Archive ::: 1999-11-11 ATO-001