Broughty Ferry level crossing 'fast becoming' Scotland's most dangerous as incidents more than double in 2023

Network Rail and British Transport Police have urged “caution” over road safety at a level crossing after repeated “misuse”.

The warning comes after an alarming rise in the number of people putting their lives at risk at Broughty Ferry level crossing were reported.

Network Rail found that since April of this year there have been 28 reported incidents where people and drivers have crossed after the warning alarms were raised.

This number is almost triple the amount recorded for the year between April 2022 and April 2023, when there were 11 incidents recorded.

This data makes the Broughty Ferry level crossing the most misused one in Scotland.

To combat the rising number of incidents, Network Rail has partnered with British Transport Police to deliver a warning of the dangers of misusing the crossing.

Scotland’s Railway’s level crossing safety team and the BTP will hand in posters to local businesses which will include safety reminders for using the crossings.

Steven Griffin, level crossing manager at Network Rail Scotland, urged those using the crossing to do so safely.

“Broughty Ferry Level Crossing is fast becoming one of the worst crossings in Scotland for misuse where pedestrian and vehicle users are deliberately ignoring safety instructions and the crossing warning equipment.

“They are not just putting themselves at risk but the travelling public,” he added.

BTP chief inspector Alasdair McWhirter added: “Level crossing safety procedures are there for a reason, and the rise in misuse incidents at Broughty Ferry Level Crossing is of serious concern to us.

“By trying to beat the system, you are not only risking your own life, but the lives of the passengers and the driver of the oncoming train.

“Adhere to the level crossing procedures and do not attempt to cross whilst warning lights and barrier sequence is in operation.

“Wait until it’s safe to cross, it’s never worth running the risk of death or serious injury for the sake of a few minutes.”