Wednesday February 11th 2015
As the opening of the Borders Railway approaches Midlothian Council’s community safety team is urging people to get behind a new pilot project, run by the British Transport Police (BTP), Network Rail and Neighbourhood Watch Scotland.
The project is set to work in the same way as a neighbourhood watch scheme in that, locals will be encouraged to come forward to report suspicious behaviour near or on the railway.
The group also shares information with people who live near a railway or use the railway, via signing up to receive alerts about safety and security issues.
And by registering free with Rail Watch, messages on local crime, antisocial behaviour, fire-related incidents, news, appeals and community safety advice will be sent directly via email, text or recorded phone message.
The scheme is also set to allow those signed up, to give feedback to help the council provide better services in the local neighbourhood.
Councillor Owen Thompson, chair of the Midlothian Community Safety Partnership, said: “This is a fantastic pilot scheme being offered in Scotland and I’d encourage all Midlothian locals to get involved.
“If people sign up to Rail Watch they will also be taking a positive role in shaping a positive future for the new Borders Railway and the wider railway network.”
To sign up go to www.railwatchscotland.co.uk
The public can also report non-emergency incidents or suspicious behaviour on or around the railway by calling 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016. In an emergency, always call 999.
