12 firms hit after thieves break in by scaling scaffolding

THIEVES ransacked a dozen businesses after scaling scaffolding on the outside of the building.

The office block in Leith was raided after the city council put up the scaffolding to carry out safety checks on the building.

It is the third time in a fortnight that thieves have used scaffolding in the area to carry out break-ins and it has led to calls for better security around work sites.

In the latest incident, Catchpell House business centre on Carpet Lane, off Bernard Street, was hit after thieves climbed up to the third floor and smashed a window. Twelve firms – including Proscot PR, SC Jewellery Design and Belle Casa cleaners – were ransacked.

Money, computer equipment, mobile phones and other valuables were stolen, while files and documentation were destroyed, office equipment was broken and fixtures vandalised.

Scaffolding has been erected so that workers can check for loose chimney stacks and unstable stonework.

Ann Confrey, owner of Proscot, today said: "We have felt more at risk of things like this since it was set up four weeks ago. There are ladders leading from the ground to the top of the building and they are never removed.

"We feel there should definitely be more safety measures. Why can't the ladders be removed and why don't the council consider putting up temporary bars on our windows? It's bad enough looking at the scaffolding, but at least make our businesses secure and keep staff safe."

Belle Casa manager Sue Hunt added: "They have stolen our computers and smashed our door. It is so easy to get to us and we need increased safety measures."

The previous Tuesday, a business in nearby Timber Bush was broken into via scaffolding while, a couple of days before that, McGlone and Co Accountants, also on Carpet Lane, reported an attempted break-in.

A police spokesman said: "We are investigating a number of break-ins that happened over the weekend within Catchpell House.

"We would advise all businesses in the area to be extra vigilant."

A council spokesman said: "The council and its contractors take great precautions when it comes to scaffolding and try to minimise any potential for criminal activity."