Extra cameras are installed in a bid to deter criminals
ScotRail has increased CCTV cove rage at train stations across Renfrewshire.
More than 300 new surveillance cameras have been installed across ScotRail Alliance’s network of 359 stations in a bid to improve security for customers and staff.
Hawkhead, Paisley Canal, Paisley Gilmour Street, Bishopton, Miliken Park, Johnstone, Howwood and Lochwinnoch are among the local stations to have received additional CCTV.
Cameras and monitors have been placed at the entrances of the network’s busiest stations, as part of a move to highlight the presence of CCTV on trains and platforms.
The work has been undertaken as part of a commitment by the company to improve station facilities across the country.
David Lister, ScotRail Alliance’s safety and sustainability director, said increased monitoring will improve railway station safety.
He claimed: “Train travel is safe, but that doesn’t mean we take our customers’ safety for granted.
“With the installation of these additional cameras, we’re sending a clear message that we do not tolerate crime on the railway.
“Footage from our cameras has previously been used by the police to investigate crime, and also to secure prosecutions in court.”
A total of 76 stations previously not covered by CCTV have had it installed since the start of the present ScotRail franchise in April 2015.
ScotRail Alliance remotely monitors CCTV footage from their two customer service centres in Paisley and Dunfermline, where they also answer calls from station help points.
Customers with bikes will be one of the biggest groups to benefit, as additional cameras have been placed at 200 stations to monitor cycle parking areas.
Chief Superintendent John McBride, from the British Transport Police (BTP), said the new CCTV cameras will help to prevent crime.
He explained: “The rollout of these new CCTV cameras by ScotRail Alliance is great news as undoubtedly it will help us further deter and disrupt criminal activity.
“Likewise, this is also great news for staff and railway users, particularly bike users.
“Thanks to these additional cameras, staff and officers will be able to remotely monitor bike shelters and quickly report suspicious behaviour to police.
“Of course, the public is also the eyes and ears of the network and can report crime and concerns to BTP discreetly by sending a text to 61016.”
We’re sending a clear message that we do not tolerate crime on our railway