Network Rail

Noted (AI summary) Dorset Police are launching Project Synergy to improve their investigative operating model and increase the resilience and wellbeing of investigative teams. They are recruiting a Detective Chief Superintendent to lead the project, which includes forming investigative hubs and introducing investigation support officers. The Ministry of Justice acknowledges the coroner's recommendations and highlights existing and planned government actions related to funding victim support services, improving SARC provisions, and implementing the Victims and Prisoners Bill. Response notes Chief Constable will address concerns about rape investigation caseload. Network Rail has instructed the raising of the parapet at Menacuddle Hill/North Street Bridge to a minimum of 1250mm above adjacent surface level, with an additional course of stonework from an existing minimum height of 990mm. The current timescale for completion of the project is one year from instruction. Cornwall Council acknowledges the complexity of funding for sexual violence recovery services and states that there is no record of Ms. Dolamore having contact with the Council's children's or adult social care services. It describes the Early Help Hub and training offered to professionals.

Noted (AI summary) SWR outlines existing signage at Ashford station and describes its participation in national campaigns and initiatives to raise awareness of railway safety and reduce trespassing. They do not consider further action is required, but will continue to engage with the wider rail group. Network Rail describes existing measures to prevent access to the railway tracks, including physical barriers and signage, as well as ongoing educational programs and safety campaigns. They have reduced overall trespass incidents by 24% and youth trespass by 32% in two years.

Noted (AI summary) Network Rail clarifies that Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) is responsible for signage at Preston Park station under the terms of their lease and that Network Rail supports safety awareness programmes, including the 'You vs Train' film, and runs seasonal publicity campaigns warning about the risks of excessive alcohol intake on the railway. GTR has enhanced training for Help Point Assessment, including functional tasks and a competency management system. Information resources now include access to a 'Track Access' system and the Stations Made Easy section of National Rail Enquiries.

Noted (AI summary) Network Rail states that instructions *are* provided to signallers, and closing the crossing would require agreement from the authorised user, for which compensation has been offered. They have also contacted the public rights of way officer at Gloucestershire County Council to consider the feasibility of extinguishing or diverting the bridleway.

Noted (AI summary) Network Rail confirms that the crossing was closed to members of the public on 26 September 2017 via temporary order granted by Walsall Local Authority and remains closed today. In 2016 enhancements were made including extending the crossing deck, installing low level solar lighting studs, and de-vegetation works. Walsall MBC are undertaking an urgent review of Network Rail's revised closure application and continue to provide assistance and guidance to Network Rail in the closure application process. As Walsall MBC is not the landowner, it has no authority to convert the crossing into a controlled crossing.