Transport for LondonTfL London Rail investment means increased police presence
Rail passengers travelling on Silverlink Metro Services are set to benefit from improved safety and security measures after London Rail, part of Transport for London, today announced the first phase of a major security initiative in a partnership with Silverlink and the British Transport Police.
An initial investment of £500,000 will provide the equivalent of 30 extra full time police officers giving high visibility support at stations and on trains throughout the week, particularly targeting peak afternoon and late night periods. Where necessary, these operations will also include the use of police dogs to help with drug detection. The increased security will cover all 50 stations on the Silverlink Metro network.
London Rail managing director Ian Brown said: "We are delighted to announce this safety and security initiative alongside Silverlink and the British Transport Police. London Rail is in the business of improving the travelling experience for all who use the rail network in the capital and we are committed to making a positive contribution to the Mayor's objectives by ensuring real improvements to train services and passenger facilities. The work is part of the £1.5bn to be invested in London's railways as part of TfL's £10bn, 5-Year Investment Programme.
"TfL is taking action across London's transport network to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. Over the last two years, the Mayor and TfL have funded an extra 200 BTP officers for the Tube and worked closely with the Metropolitan Police, through the Transport Operational Command Unit to target bus crime and illegal minicab touts."
Silverlink's Operations Director, Mark Hopwood said: "Rail is still a very safe way to travel, but passengers need to feel safe. I am delighted that Silverlink is a member of a partnership whose goal is to curb anti-social behaviour. I am very grateful to TfL for the funding that will help to create a pleasant and secure environment, which in turn will reassure customers using our services that they are safe when travelling with Silverlink Metro."
Chief Superintendent Willie McCafferty, the BTP London North Area Commander, added: "It is important that passengers and rail staff see tangible benefits from this welcome investment and I, together with Inspector Bob Munn and his team, are committed to ensure they do by ensuring a highly visible police presence coupled with a positive arrest policy for those who are
anti-social or commit crime."
For TfL press enquiries, contact:
Press Office on 020 7941 4884 or Hazel Peacock
TfL London Rail on 020 7941 7686
For enquiries regarding Silverlink please contact:
Graham Bashford, on 020 7 427 2810
For enquiries regarding the British Transport Police please contact:
Simon Lubin, 020 7830 8854 (mobile:07771 670116)
