Security boost for underpass in wake of rape ordeal

Improved lighting, a barrier separating the underpass from a nearby park and possible night-time patrols are among the measures under discussion.

It comes in the wake of the horrific attack by cousins Michal Marchlewski and Tomasz Kryczyk, who repeatedly raped a 24-year-old Australian beautician in a makeshift drinking den hidden in bushes behind the Lidl store on Dalry Road last year.

The victim had been blasted in the face with pepper spray as she walked home from work in broad daylight through the Telfer underpass, near the city's Fountainpark leisure centre.

The case led to a safety assessment of the area where, over a six-month period, there were also four assault and robberies as well as several incidents of minor vandalism.

Among the measures being considered by the council are cutting back mature bushes and trees in the area. The lighting on paths beside the underpass will also be improved with the installation of white light LED units.

Other proposals include removing graffiti from the underpass, introducing formal patrolling and surveillance of the nearby park area.

Councillor Paul Edie, the council's community safety leader, said: "The increased safety of residents is a key priority for the council so I am pleased that these improvements are planned to take place in the area surrounding the Telfer underpass.

"I'm sure they will enhance the area for those who use it while making it a safer route."

The plans were welcomed by local councillor Gordon Buchan, who said: "The assault last year was a particularly horrific case, and I'm glad that measures are now being considered to ensure the safety of people using the underpass."

A police spokesman said: "A crime prevention survey was carried out in respect of the area surrounding the Telfer underpass, and the recommendations were passed to our partners in the council. We are delighted these recommendations are being taken."