Evening Echo - Thurs 13/01/2005

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South Essex: Rail stations fail to meet safety standards
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Nearly half of the railway stations on the south Essex c2c network do not meet Government safety standards.

Despite its passengers' charter claiming the company "aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment at all our stations", 11 of c2c's 25 stations do not meet the "secure stations scheme" accreditation standard.

In August 2003, when the passengers charter was published, all 25 met the required standard. Since then, however, the number of accredited stations has slipped down to 14.

Among those not up to scratch are Basildon, Ockendon, Pitsea and the network's London Fenchurch Street terminus.

Individual stations must provide evidence that they have fought crime effectively over the previous 12 months, and also be designed to promote the safety of travellers.

Stations must also be fitted with safety features such as CCTV and public address systems, while also ensuring passengers feel safe and secure when using the facilities.

A c2c spokeswoman said the company was aiming to increase the number of accredited safe stations in the near future.

She said: "It is an ongoing programme and many of the stations' accreditation will be renewed. The number will change."

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