After several recent trespass incidents, Network Rail is urging passengers and users of Motspur Park station in south west London to use the designated diversion.
The footbridge from Station Road to the platforms is currently out of use, having closed in July to make way for a works compound which is being used in the building of a new, accessible footbridge.
The work will continue until spring next year, and a diversionary route is set out for passengers to access the platforms safely, using the level crossing at West Barnes Lane, the turning right onto Claremont Avenue and then over the station footbridge via a lane between house numbers 156 and 158.
However, there have been five reported instances of trespass in the last two weeks. In each one, passengers have risked their and others' lives by walking along the railway as a shortcut instead of using the diversionary route.
CCTV has captured several instances in which passengers – including both adults and children – have arrived at the station wanting to access Station Road and east of the station, have not used the diversion but have instead left the platform and walked around fifty metres before exiting at the level crossing.
Motspur Park station is in the London Borough of Merton, and is in Travelcard Zone 4. The station is served by South Western Railway.
Network Rail, South Western Railway (SWR) and the British Transport Police (BTP) are attempting to tackle the problem by deploying extra staff at the station, increasing BTP patrols at the station and the level crossing, and installing anti-trespass panels – known as Witches' Hats – at the level crossing. These panels are typically made of rubber and shaped like pyramids or cones. The spikes on the panels make it hard for people to climb over them and access the tracks. Network Rail has installed them at various locations in the UK, including level crossings and stations.
Helen Yorke, Network Rail's Wessex route crime manager, said: “It's mind-blowing to see the stupid and reckless behaviour of individuals who are disregarding their own and other people's safety by trespassing on the railway instead of following a designated diversion.
“Trains that travel on the railway through Motspur Park and across our Wessex route more widely are powered by the third rail which contains 750 volts – easily enough to kill or seriously injure – and is on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
“Trespassing on the railway is not only extremely dangerous but is also a crime and we are working closely with our partners at SWR and the BTP to increase patrols and prevent any further instances of trespass. I urge passengers and members of the public to take responsibility for their own safety and follow the short, designated diversionary route.”
A spokesperson for the British Transport Police, said: “Trespassing on any part of the rail network is something we take extremely seriously. Not only is it illegal, but this environment is full of hidden dangers that can result in serious and life-ending consequences.
“We continuously work with partners, such as Network Rail, train operators and local communities to raise the awareness of these dangers and we will always take action against those who trespass whenever we can.”
An SWR spokesperson said: “We are growing increasingly concerned by some of the behaviour we are witnessing at Motspur Park. It is shocking to think that individuals are trespassing on the live railway just to save a few minutes of walking time. Trains can pass through this area at speeds of up to 60mph and there is the constant threat of the electrified third rail. Customers should not access the track under any circumstances and should use the diversionary walking route as intended.”
