Dave Thompson MSP

Calls for safety improvements at level crossings were endorsed by SNP conference today (Friday) in the wake of the tragic accident at Halkirk earlier this month. Highlands and Islands MSP Dave Thompson led calls for improvements, and welcomed news that the Scottish Government was already set to discuss the installation of barriers with Network Rail in a bid to prevent future tragedies.

Mr Thomson pointed out that 21 of Scotland's 23 ungated level crossings were in the Highland Council area and said he would be seeking the upgrading of those crossings  so that they will be gated within five years.

Mr Thompson said: “The tragic events earlier this month underline the need for safety improvements to make sure that every crossing is as safe as possible. As a Highlands and Islands MSP I am particularly concerned because 21 of the 23 ungated level crossings are within the Highland Council area.

"Although automatic open crossings represent just 2% of all level crossings, they account for an astonishing 31% of all collisions. We must do everything we can to end these appalling accidents and so where safety improvements can be made they must. That is why I am pushing to see those crossings gated within five years.

“While rail safety is reserved to Westminster, I am pleased that the Scottish Government is already set to discuss matters directly with Network Rail and identify whether safety improvements can be made.

Note:

SNP Conference Resolution:
Automatic Open Level Crossings
Conference notes the decision of the train drivers’ union, Aslef, to instruct train drivers to slow down to 20mph at Automatic Open Crossings (AOCLs) following the latest tragic accident  at Halkirk and that AOCLs account for just 2% of all level crossings but 31% of collisions.

Conference therefore calls on the Scottish Government and Network Rail to work together to improve safety for all 23 AOCLs in Scotland.