Train drivers issue go-slow threat over crossing fears

Published on Tuesday 13 October 2009 00:29

TRAIN drivers are threatening a 20mph go-slow at all open level-crossings in Scotland because of safety fears following last month's fatal crash, The Scotsman has learned.

The move, to be considered by the main drivers' union this week, comes as British Transport Police (BTP) launches a new crackdown on motorists who drive through red lights on crossings in the Highlands.

The three occupants of a car were killed when it collided with a ScotRail train on a barrier-less crossing at Halkirk, in Caithness, two weeks ago.

Across Britain, this type of crossing has accounted for nearly one-third of level-crossing collisions over the past ten years despite accounting for only 2 per cent of the total.

The train drivers' union Aslef said it might instruct train drivers to cut their speed to 20mph through the 23 such crossings in Scotland, from the normal limits of up to 50mph. All but two of the crossings are in the Highlands.

Aslef Scottish officer Kevin Lindsay said: "Halkirk was the final straw for a number of our members. We have had enough of this and are looking for greater protection.

"A fatal accident involves a great deal of stress and trauma, and is a quite horrific incident for drivers."

Police are to devote more time to enforcing safety at open crossings in the Highlands, The Scotsman has been told.

BTP has increased staffing in the region from one to five officers, while two other staff have been taken on to collect film from red-light cameras, including at four open crossings in Dingwall and Garve.

Aslef applauded the BTP move but said better protection for train crew and passengers was also required.

Mr Lindsay said: "We welcome any additional police work, but it is a poor substitute for barriers and bridges."

Network Rail has said installing barriers would cost 1 million per crossing.

A ScotRail spokesman said: "We await developments and continue to work with all industry partners to ensure the safety of our customers and staff."

A Network Rail spokesman said: "We have not had any recent communication with Aslef regarding line speeds at open level-crossings. Line speeds over crossings are dictated by a range of factors, including sight lines and traffic flow and are regularly risk assessed."