Public access to live rail at platform end
Network Rail received 16 coroners' reports about this hazard between 26 Feb 2016 and 1 Jul 2025.
They came from 14 different coroners in 14 coroner areas. A similar concern was raised again 15 times after the first warning.
A published response was found for 15 of the 15 earlier reports, stating 11 specific actions.
The story, report by report
Spacing grows with the time between reports.
“Recommendations in The BTP Post Fatality Report to create a safer environment at the bridge and restrict public access to the railway had not been effected by the time of the inquest.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Network Rail responded, stating 3 specific actions.Response (PDF) ↗
“The new footbridge railings are at the current industry standard height of 1250mm.”
Web search (Tavily): No evidence found either way
Vertical Circulation ↗“We are in the process of installing acoustic fencing on both sides of the track at a height of 3m. This will also have anti-climb wire extensions fitted as an additional deterrent at certain sections.”
Web search (Tavily): No evidence found either way
QTS worked on behalf of Network Rail to deliver anti trespass ... ↗1 more stated action in the Promises tab.
- 5 months later
“The gate is of wooden construction and | provides little deterrence or hindrance to someone wanting to gain access to the railway”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Network Rail responded, stating 1 specific action.Response (PDF) ↗
“In relation to the wooden gate, this gate will be upgraded by the 2° December 2016, as part of a comprehensive upgrade to the fencing at this site.”
Stated timescale: 2 December 2016
Web search (Tavily): Evidence found that the action was carried out
QTS worked on behalf of Network Rail to deliver anti trespass ... ↗ - 1 month later
“Both the gate and | fence provide little deterrence or hindrance to someone wanting to gain | access to the railway”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Network Rail responded, stating 1 specific action.Response (PDF) ↗
“e We have commissioned works to enhance the fencing and gates in this area. These works will be delivered by 15”
Stated timescale: 15
Web search (Tavily): Evidence found that the action was carried out
Right-of-way fencing ↗ - 8 months laterClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · higha different coroner
“Photographs of the location where the death occurred, provided by British Transport Police show that various sections of fencing and walls separating the public footpath from the railway line were broken, missing or in disrepair.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Repeated from the earlier report:BritishTransportrailwayline
Network Rail responded, stating 1 specific action.Response (PDF) ↗
“Network Rail has reviewed the active fencing proposals for upgrade on both sides of the track in the section where the incident occurred and have included these in our 2018 renewals plan”
Stated timescale: 2018 renewals plan
Web search (Tavily): Evidence found that the action was carried out
Review of Network Rail's proposed costs ↗ - 8 months laterClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · higha different coroner
“fencing beside the railway track was inadequate especially at the rear of a scrap metal dealer located off St Albans Road and Bedford Street”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Repeated from the earlier report:fencingrailway
Network Rail responded, stating 1 specific action.Response (PDF) ↗
“in line with this recommendation, an inspection was undertaken by Network Rail's local operations team on 17 May 2017 to establish ownership and condition of the boundary fencing”
Stated timescale: 17 May 2017
Web search (Tavily): No evidence found either way
- 6 months laterClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · higha different coroner
“If the crossing is a recognised”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Network Rail responded.Response (PDF) ↗
- 1 month laterClosely relatedConfidence 0.92 · higha different coroner
“I am concerned that the railway track is easily accessible to members of the public from this bridge.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Repeated from the earlier report:railwaypublicbridge
Network Rail responded, stating 1 specific action.Response (PDF) ↗
“Network Rail is planning to apply mitigation measures (wire mesh panels with base plated fence posts fixed to the top of the parapet walls) to the parapet walls to further deter access to the track below. An order has now been placed with Network Rail's framework contractors in respect of these works, with an anticipated completion date of the end of September 2018.”
Stated timescale: end of September 2018
Web search (Tavily): Evidence found that the action was carried out
QTS worked on behalf of Network Rail to deliver anti trespass ... ↗ - 0 months later
“The absence of an end of platform barrier and the existence of a live rail at ground level that might be accessible to members of the public may in my opinion create a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Network Rail responded, stating 1 specific action.Response (PDF) ↗
“In your report, you state that”
Stated timescale: by the end of 2018 with some being finished in early 2019
Web search (Tavily): Evidence found that the action was carried out
Safety gates installed across South East to reduce trespass ... ↗ - 2 months laterIdentical hazardConfidence 0.95 · higha different coroner
“Only post and wire fencing at the rallway boundary In this area. The areas on both sides off the tckneild Way, particularly to the west of the railway, are used by dog walkers and others”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Repeated from the earlier report:fencingrailway
Network Rail responded.Response (PDF) ↗
- 5 months laterIdentical hazardConfidence 0.95 · higha different coroner
“The fencing at the scene of Mr [name redacted] death was a low wooden fence which was easy to climb over.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Network Rail responded, stating 1 specific action.Response (PDF) ↗
“seriously and has taken additional measures beyond those required by its standards, to install additional meshing and netting at this location to act as an increased deterrent to climbing”
- 5 months laterClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · higha different coroner
“found that [the deceased] died instantly as a result of electrocution when he came in contact with the electric rail at 0557 hrs on the 23 December, 2018.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Network Rail responded.Response (PDF) ↗Response (PDF) ↗
- 8 months laterIdentical hazardConfidence 0.95 · higha different coroner
“There were no physical boundaries at the end of the platform preventing members of the public accessing the railway tracks.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Repeated from the earlier report:platformmemberspublic
Network Rail responded.Response (PDF) ↗
- 1 year 2 months later
Raised again · 12th time
Callum Evans↗
18 May 2021 · Jason Pegg · Hampshire, Portsmouth and Southampton
Identical hazardConfidence 0.90 · higha different coroner“The railway station has an absence of signage stating the presence and risk to life of a live rail on the railway tracks which can be seen by those entering the railway station or whilst on the central part of the platform”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Repeated from the earlier report:riskliverail
Network Rail responded.Response (PDF) ↗
- 0 months later
Raised again · 13th time
Christine Gould↗
28 May 2021 · Nicholas Moss QC · Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
Identical hazardConfidence 0.90 · higha different coroner“(3) I am concerned that your investigation into, and consideration of, [name redacted]' death did not keep a sufficiently open mind that she may have climbed the boundary fence to access the railway line.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Repeated from the earlier report:deathfence
Network Rail responded, stating 1 specific action.Response (PDF) ↗Response (PDF) ↗
“Following notification of the Regulation 28 report, a member of the Investigation Review Team within the British Transport Police was commissioned to review the investigation of [the deceased], the scope of this review was limited to the matters of concern. This review offered recommendations of which a number are included within this response.”
- 2 years 9 months laterClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · higha different coroner
“The concern here is that there is evidence to suggest that access to the railway tracks by members of the public may be a frequent issue in this vicinity.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Repeated from the earlier report:railwaymemberspublic
Network Rail responded.Response (PDF) ↗Response (PDF) ↗
- 1 year 4 months laterIdentical hazardConfidence 0.90 · higha different coroner
“Access to the [REDACTED] from the platform is not sufficiently barred or impeded to the public.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Repeated from the earlier report:platformpublic
Network Rail responded.Response (PDF) ↗
- All reports to Network Rail
Each row is one judged link between an earlier and a later report. Open a row to read both quotes, found word for word in the originals.
2016 → 2017Daniel Campbell8 months after Stephen Cahill · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight inadequate fencing or barriers that fail to deter access to the railway line. The earlier report cites a gate and fence offering little hindrance, while the later report notes broken, missing, or disrepaired fencing and walls.
Stephen Cahill · 23 Aug 2016
“The British Transport investigation revealed that the deceased gained | access to the railway line through an access gate. Both the gate and | fence provide little deterrence or hindrance to someone wanting to gain | access to the railway”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Daniel Campbell · 13 Apr 2017
“Photographs of the location where the death occurred, provided by British Transport Police show that various sections of fencing and walls separating the public footpath from the railway line were broken, missing or in disrepair.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“e We have commissioned works to enhance the fencing and gates in this area. These works will be delivered by 15”
2016 → 2017Daniel Campbell8 months after Susan Hamlett · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight insufficient physical barriers that allow unwanted access to the railway line. The earlier case concerns a weak wooden gate, while the later case notes broken or missing fencing and walls.
Susan Hamlett · 4 Aug 2016
“The British Transport investigation revealed that the deceased gained | access to the railway line through an access gate at Lower Farm Road, Bromham, Bedfordshire”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Daniel Campbell · 13 Apr 2017
“Photographs of the location where the death occurred, provided by British Transport Police show that various sections of fencing and walls separating the public footpath from the railway line were broken, missing or in disrepair.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“In relation to the wooden gate, this gate will be upgraded by the 2° December 2016, as part of a comprehensive upgrade to the fencing at this site.”
2016 → 2017Daniel Campbell1 year 2 months after Jakovas Fofonovas · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight inadequate physical barriers that allow public access to the railway, creating a risk of trespass. The earlier report notes unimplemented recommendations to restrict access, while the later report observes existing fences and walls in disrepair.
Jakovas Fofonovas · 26 Feb 2016
“Recommendations in The BTP Post Fatality Report to create a safer environment at the bridge and restrict public access to the railway had not been effected by the time of the inquest.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Daniel Campbell · 13 Apr 2017
“Photographs of the location where the death occurred, provided by British Transport Police show that various sections of fencing and walls separating the public footpath from the railway line were broken, missing or in disrepair.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“We are in the process of installing acoustic fencing on both sides of the track at a height of 3m. This will also have anti-climb wire extensions fitted as an additional deterrent at certain sections.”
2017 → 2017Scott Rayner8 months after Daniel Campbell · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports point to inadequate fencing or barriers alongside the railway line that could allow trespass. They differ in the specific locations and contexts described.
Daniel Campbell · 13 Apr 2017
“Photographs of the location where the death occurred, provided by British Transport Police show that various sections of fencing and walls separating the public footpath from the railway line were broken, missing or in disrepair.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Scott Rayner · 20 Dec 2017
“fencing beside the railway track was inadequate especially at the rear of a scrap metal dealer located off St Albans Road and Bedford Street”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“Network Rail has reviewed the active fencing proposals for upgrade on both sides of the track in the section where the incident occurred and have included these in our 2018 renewals plan”
2016 → 2017Scott Rayner1 year 4 months after Stephen Cahill · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight inadequate fencing or gate security that allows easy trespass onto the railway line. The later report specifies a particular location near a scrap metal dealer, whereas the earlier report concerns a general access gate and fence.
Stephen Cahill · 23 Aug 2016
“The British Transport investigation revealed that the deceased gained | access to the railway line through an access gate. Both the gate and | fence provide little deterrence or hindrance to someone wanting to gain | access to the railway”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Scott Rayner · 20 Dec 2017
“British Transport Police investigating revealed that fencing beside the railway track was inadequate especially at the rear of a scrap metal dealer located off St Albans Road and Bedford Street, ieading toa risk that adults and children may trespass on the line where the speed limit is 100mph.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ 2016 → 2017Scott Rayner1 year 5 months after Susan Hamlett · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight insufficient barriers (a wooden gate and trackside fencing) that fail to deter trespass onto the railway. The core issue is inadequate fencing/gate allowing access, though the locations and specific barrier types differ.
Susan Hamlett · 4 Aug 2016
“The British Transport investigation revealed that the deceased gained | access to the railway line through an access gate at Lower Farm Road, Bromham, Bedfordshire. The gate is of wooden construction and | provides little deterrence or hindrance to someone wanting to gain access to the railway”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Scott Rayner · 20 Dec 2017
“British Transport Police investigating revealed that fencing beside the railway track was inadequate especially at the rear of a scrap metal dealer located off St Albans Road and Bedford Street, ieading toa risk that adults and children may trespass on the line where the speed limit is 100mph.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“In relation to the wooden gate, this gate will be upgraded by the 2° December 2016, as part of a comprehensive upgrade to the fencing at this site.”
2017 → 2018Andrew Hanahoe1 year 2 months after Daniel Campbell · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight inadequate fencing or barriers that allow easy access to the railway line. They differ in the earlier focusing on existing disrepair and the later calling for new fencing alongside a footbridge.
Daniel Campbell · 13 Apr 2017
“Photographs of the location where the death occurred, provided by British Transport Police show that various sections of fencing and walls separating the public footpath from the railway line were broken, missing or in disrepair.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Andrew Hanahoe · 19 Jun 2018
“If the crossing is a recognised”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“Network Rail has reviewed the active fencing proposals for upgrade on both sides of the track in the section where the incident occurred and have included these in our 2018 renewals plan”
2016 → 2018Bartholomew Coleman2 years 4 months after Jakovas Fofonovas · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.92 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.92 · highBoth reports highlight that the railway track can be accessed by the public from a bridge due to insufficient protective measures. The earlier report notes unimplemented recommendations to restrict access, while the later report describes a low wall and worn path that allow easy entry.
Jakovas Fofonovas · 26 Feb 2016
“Recommendations in The BTP Post Fatality Report to create a safer environment at the bridge and restrict public access to the railway had not been effected by the time of the inquest.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Bartholomew Coleman · 10 Jul 2018
“I am concerned that the railway track is easily accessible to members of the public from this bridge.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“The new footbridge railings are at the current industry standard height of 1250mm.”
2017 → 2018Kevin Sherwood9 months after Scott Rayner · different coronerIdentical hazardConfidence 0.95 · high
Identical hazardConfidence 0.95 · highBoth reports highlight inadequate fencing along the railway boundary that creates a risk of trespass. The earlier report cites insufficient fencing near a scrap metal dealer, while the later notes only post-and-wire fencing in an area used by dog walkers.
Scott Rayner · 20 Dec 2017
“fencing beside the railway track was inadequate especially at the rear of a scrap metal dealer located off St Albans Road and Bedford Street”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Kevin Sherwood · 11 Sept 2018
“Only post and wire fencing at the rallway boundary In this area. The areas on both sides off the tckneild Way, particularly to the west of the railway, are used by dog walkers and others”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“in line with this recommendation, an inspection was undertaken by Network Rail's local operations team on 17 May 2017 to establish ownership and condition of the boundary fencing”
2017 → 2018Kevin Sherwood1 year 5 months after Daniel Campbell · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight inadequate fencing or barriers between the railway and adjacent public areas, noting that the existing fencing is insufficient to deter trespass. The earlier report focuses on broken, missing, or disrepair fencing, while the later report notes only post-and-wire fencing is present.
Daniel Campbell · 13 Apr 2017
“Photographs of the location where the death occurred, provided by British Transport Police show that various sections of fencing and walls separating the public footpath from the railway line were broken, missing or in disrepair.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Kevin Sherwood · 11 Sept 2018
“(1) Only post and wire fencing at the rallway boundary In this area. The areas on both sides off the tckneild Way, particularly to the west of the railway, are used by dog walkers and others.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ 2016 → 2019Steven Key2 years 6 months after Stephen Cahill · different coronerIdentical hazardConfidence 0.95 · high
Identical hazardConfidence 0.95 · highBoth reports highlight that inadequate fencing or gates allow easy access to the railway line, creating a trespass risk.
Stephen Cahill · 23 Aug 2016
“Both the gate and | fence provide little deterrence or hindrance to someone wanting to gain | access to the railway”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Steven Key · 25 Feb 2019
“The fencing at the scene of Mr [name redacted] death was a low wooden fence which was easy to climb over.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“e We have commissioned works to enhance the fencing and gates in this area. These works will be delivered by 15”
2016 → 2019Steven Key3 years after Jakovas Fofonovas · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.92 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.92 · highBoth reports highlight the need to stop members of the public from gaining unauthorised access to the railway line. They differ in the specific context – one concerns a bridge in London, the other a low wooden fence at a station in Cumbria.
Jakovas Fofonovas · 26 Feb 2016
“Recommendations in The BTP Post Fatality Report to create a safer environment at the bridge and restrict public access to the railway had not been effected by the time of the inquest.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Steven Key · 25 Feb 2019
“(1) You have a duty under the Railway Safety (Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations 1997 to prevent access to the railway line so far as is reasonably practicable. (2) The fencing at the scene of Mr [name redacted] death was a low wooden fence which was easy to climb over.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“We are in the process of installing acoustic fencing on both sides of the track at a height of 3m. This will also have anti-climb wire extensions fitted as an additional deterrent at certain sections.”
2017 → 2019Steven Key1 year 2 months after Scott Rayner · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight inadequate fencing alongside the railway that allows trespassing onto the line. The earlier case concerned a scrap metal dealer site, while the later case involved a low wooden fence at a station location.
Scott Rayner · 20 Dec 2017
“fencing beside the railway track was inadequate especially at the rear of a scrap metal dealer located off St Albans Road and Bedford Street”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Steven Key · 25 Feb 2019
“The fencing at the scene of Mr [name redacted] death was a low wooden fence which was easy to climb over.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“in line with this recommendation, an inspection was undertaken by Network Rail's local operations team on 17 May 2017 to establish ownership and condition of the boundary fencing”
2016 → 2019Steven Key2 years 7 months after Susan Hamlett · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight that a wooden fence or gate at the site offers insufficient resistance to prevent unauthorized access to the railway line. The later report notes the same type of barrier remains easy to climb, while the earlier report described the gate as providing little deterrence.
Susan Hamlett · 4 Aug 2016
“The gate is of wooden construction and | provides little deterrence or hindrance to someone wanting to gain access to the railway”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Steven Key · 25 Feb 2019
“The fencing at the scene of Mr [name redacted] death was a low wooden fence which was easy to climb over.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“In relation to the wooden gate, this gate will be upgraded by the 2° December 2016, as part of a comprehensive upgrade to the fencing at this site.”
2017 → 2019Steven Key1 year 10 months after Daniel Campbell · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight inadequate fencing or barriers that allow public access to the railway line, creating a risk of trespass and potential harm. The earlier report notes broken, missing, or disrepaired fencing and walls, while the later report describes a low wooden fence that is easy to climb.
Daniel Campbell · 13 Apr 2017
“Photographs of the location where the death occurred, provided by British Transport Police show that various sections of fencing and walls separating the public footpath from the railway line were broken, missing or in disrepair.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Steven Key · 25 Feb 2019
“The fencing at the scene of Mr [name redacted] death was a low wooden fence which was easy to climb over.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“Network Rail has reviewed the active fencing proposals for upgrade on both sides of the track in the section where the incident occurred and have included these in our 2018 renewals plan”
2018 → 2019Steven Key8 months after Bartholomew Coleman · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight that existing barriers are insufficient to prevent public access to the railway line, creating a risk of injury or death from trains.
Bartholomew Coleman · 10 Jul 2018
“I am concerned that the railway track is easily accessible to members of the public from this bridge.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Steven Key · 25 Feb 2019
“The fencing at the scene of Mr [name redacted] death was a low wooden fence which was easy to climb over.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“Network Rail is planning to apply mitigation measures (wire mesh panels with base plated fence posts fixed to the top of the parapet walls) to the parapet walls to further deter access to the track below. An order has now been placed with Network Rail's framework contractors in respect of these works, with an anticipated completion date of the end of September 2018.”
2018 → 2019Carl Klimaytys1 year after Taiyah-Grace Peebles · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight the danger posed by exposed live rails at ground level that can cause electrocution. The earlier report stresses the lack of a physical barrier, while the later report calls for better signage to inform the public about the rail's presence.
Taiyah-Grace Peebles · 24 Jul 2018
“The absence of an end of platform barrier and the existence of a live rail at ground level that might be accessible to members of the public”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Carl Klimaytys · 7 Aug 2019
“found that [the deceased] died instantly as a result of electrocution when he came in contact with the electric rail at 0557 hrs on the 23 December, 2018.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“In your report, you state that”
2018 → 2020Jordan Aira1 year 8 months after Taiyah-Grace Peebles · different coronerIdentical hazardConfidence 0.95 · high
Identical hazardConfidence 0.95 · highBoth reports highlight the lack of a barrier at the platform end that allows public access to the live rail. This creates a risk of contact with the electrified track.
Taiyah-Grace Peebles · 24 Jul 2018
“The absence of an end of platform barrier and the existence of a live rail at ground level that might be accessible to members of the public may in my opinion create a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Jordan Aira · 30 Mar 2020
“There were no physical boundaries at the end of the platform preventing members of the public accessing the railway tracks.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ 2018 → 2020Jordan Aira1 year 9 months after Bartholomew Coleman · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight insufficient physical barriers that allow members of the public to access the railway track. The earlier case points to a gap at a bridge, while the later case notes missing protection near an emergency telephone.
Bartholomew Coleman · 10 Jul 2018
“There is a trodden path through the undergrowth from the wall to the train track, indicating that that this is a route that has been used by others to access this area.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Jordan Aira · 30 Mar 2020
“The emergency telephone which may be used by members of the public is located adjacent to the railway track.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ 2016 → 2020Jordan Aira4 years 1 month after Jakovas Fofonovas · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight insufficient measures to stop members of the public from gaining access to the railway tracks. The earlier report focuses on missing bridge safeguards, while the later report notes absent platform-end boundaries.
Jakovas Fofonovas · 26 Feb 2016
“Recommendations in The BTP Post Fatality Report to create a safer environment”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Jordan Aira · 30 Mar 2020
“There were no physical boundaries at the end of the platform preventing”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“over At the shoulder of the steps/ramps and the main span there is an anti-climb guard at a greater height than the railings as further mitigation. In addition there is the acoustic fencing and anti-climb wire extensions to prevent anyone accessing the track if they were to climb over”
2017 → 2020Jordan Aira3 years after Daniel Campbell · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight insufficient physical barriers that allow public access to the railway tracks, creating a risk of trespass. The earlier report focuses on broken fencing and walls along a footpath, while the later report notes missing boundaries at a platform end.
Daniel Campbell · 13 Apr 2017
“Photographs of the location where the death occurred, provided by British Transport Police show that various sections of fencing and walls separating the public footpath from the railway line were broken, missing or in disrepair.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Jordan Aira · 30 Mar 2020
“There were no physical boundaries at the end of the platform preventing members of the public accessing the railway tracks.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“Network Rail has reviewed the active fencing proposals for upgrade on both sides of the track in the section where the incident occurred and have included these in our 2018 renewals plan”
2020 → 2021Callum Evans1 year 2 months after Jordan Aira · different coronerIdentical hazardConfidence 0.90 · high
Identical hazardConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight inadequate warning signage about the lethal risk of touching the live electrified rail.
Jordan Aira · 30 Mar 2020
“The warning signs in place which are standard in the rail industry do not in terms warn of the risk of immediate death if you touch the live rail”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Callum Evans · 18 May 2021
“The railway station has an absence of signage stating the presence and risk to life of a live rail on the railway tracks which can be seen by those entering the railway station or whilst on the central part of the platform”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ 2018 → 2021Callum Evans2 years 10 months after Taiyah-Grace Peebles · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.86 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.86 · highBoth reports highlight the danger posed by an exposed live (third) rail at ground level on railway platforms.
Taiyah-Grace Peebles · 24 Jul 2018
“The absence of an end of platform barrier and the existence of a live rail at ground level that might be accessible to members of the public may in my opinion create a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Callum Evans · 18 May 2021
“The railway station has an absence of signage stating the presence and risk to life of a live rail on the railway tracks which can be seen by those entering the railway station or whilst on the central part of the platform”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ 2019 → 2021Christine Gould2 years 3 months after Steven Key · different coronerIdentical hazardConfidence 0.90 · high
Identical hazardConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight the risk of individuals climbing the boundary fence to gain access to the railway line. They concern the same hazard: inadequate fencing that can be easily climbed.
Steven Key · 25 Feb 2019
“(2) The fencing at the scene of Mr [name redacted] death was a low wooden fence which was easy to climb over.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Christine Gould · 28 May 2021
“(3) I am concerned that your investigation into, and consideration of, [name redacted]' death did not keep a sufficiently open mind that she may have climbed the boundary fence to access the railway line.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“seriously and has taken additional measures beyond those required by its standards, to install additional meshing and netting at this location to act as an increased deterrent to climbing”
2018 → 2024Vanessa Ford5 years 8 months after Bartholomew Coleman · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight that members of the public can readily access the railway tracks from a bridge or wall structure. The later report notes similar accessibility issues despite existing mitigation measures.
Bartholomew Coleman · 10 Jul 2018
“I am concerned that the railway track is easily accessible to members of the public from this bridge.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Vanessa Ford · 4 Mar 2024
“The concern here is that there is evidence to suggest that access to the railway tracks by members of the public may be a frequent issue in this vicinity.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“Network Rail is planning to apply mitigation measures (wire mesh panels with base plated fence posts fixed to the top of the parapet walls) to the parapet walls to further deter access to the track below. An order has now been placed with Network Rail's framework contractors in respect of these works, with an anticipated completion date of the end of September 2018.”
2017 → 2024Vanessa Ford6 years 2 months after Scott Rayner · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.90 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight insufficient physical barriers that allow members of the public to access the railway tracks. The earlier report cites inadequate fencing near a scrap metal dealer, while the later report points to a low wall and accessible electrical box facilitating entry.
Scott Rayner · 20 Dec 2017
“fencing beside the railway track was inadequate especially at the rear of a scrap metal dealer located off St Albans Road and Bedford Street”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Vanessa Ford · 4 Mar 2024
“evidence to suggest that access to the railway tracks by members of the public may be a frequent issue in this vicinity”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ 2020 → 2024Vanessa Ford3 years 11 months after Jordan Aira · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.85 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.85 · highBoth reports highlight insufficient physical protection that allows members of the public to access railway tracks. The earlier report cites missing platform-end boundaries, while the later report points to a low wall and street furniture that facilitate trespass.
Jordan Aira · 30 Mar 2020
“There were no physical boundaries at the end of the platform preventing members of the public accessing the railway tracks.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Vanessa Ford · 4 Mar 2024
“The concern here is that there is evidence to suggest that access to the railway tracks by members of the public may be a frequent issue in this vicinity.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ 2016 → 2024Vanessa Ford8 years after Jakovas Fofonovas · different coronerClosely relatedConfidence 0.85 · high
Closely relatedConfidence 0.85 · highBoth reports highlight that members of the public can gain access to the railway tracks in the area. The earlier report notes unimplemented recommendations to restrict access, while the later report points to existing physical mitigations that proved ineffective.
Jakovas Fofonovas · 26 Feb 2016
“Recommendations in The BTP Post Fatality Report to create a safer environment at the bridge and restrict public access to the railway had not been effected by the time of the inquest.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Vanessa Ford · 4 Mar 2024
“I was provided with evidence that there have been three (non-fatal) incidents in the vicinity of the Hackney Central/Dalston Kingsland areas of the rail network in the 12 months prior to this incident on 23 September 2023”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Stated action in the response to the earlier report
“We are in the process of installing acoustic fencing on both sides of the track at a height of 3m. This will also have anti-climb wire extensions fitted as an additional deterrent at certain sections.”
2020 → 2025Jody Robb5 years 3 months after Jordan Aira · different coronerIdentical hazardConfidence 0.90 · high
Identical hazardConfidence 0.90 · highBoth reports highlight the absence of effective physical barriers at the platform edge that allow members of the public to access the railway area.
Jordan Aira · 30 Mar 2020
“There were no physical boundaries at the end of the platform preventing members of the public accessing the railway tracks.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗ Jody Robb · 1 Jul 2025
“Access to the [REDACTED] from the platform is not sufficiently barred or impeded to the public.”
Original on judiciary.uk ↗
Stated action
“The new footbridge railings are at the current industry standard height of 1250mm.”
What happened next: No evidence found either way
The sources discuss general rail height standards but do not mention Network Rail or a specific 1250mm footbridge railing promise.
“Vertical Circulation Design Manual NR/GN/CIV/200/05 September 2022 1/96 Document Verification [name redacted] & Architecture, Technical Authority Frank Anatole Principal Architect Buildings & Architecture, Technical Authority [name redacted] & Architecture, Technical Authority Technical Lead Name Department or Role Name Department or Role Dis”
“Safety Rail Height Requirement a Code Guide for 2026”
No evidence found does not mean the action did not happen.
Stated action
“We are in the process of installing acoustic fencing on both sides of the track at a height of 3m. This will also have anti-climb wire extensions fitted as an additional deterrent at certain sections.”
What happened next: No evidence found either way
Network Rail's website does not mention acoustic fencing or anti-climb wire extensions.
“Works were completed successfully, with purpose designed anti climb fencing along the full extent of the parapets to prevent unauthorised access”
“WireWorks Anti-Climb fence is a unique perimeter security product that maintains a guarded display of visual screening balancing the need to delay and deter an attack”
“Discover more about the people who run Network Rail, our commitment to safety and sustainability and how we connect Britain through our infrastructure”
No evidence found does not mean the action did not happen.
Stated action
“over At the shoulder of the steps/ramps and the main span there is an anti-climb guard at a greater height than the railings as further mitigation. In addition there is the acoustic fencing and anti-climb wire extensions to prevent anyone accessing the track if they were to climb over”
What happened next: No evidence found either way
Network Rail's Developers Handbook mentions asset protection requirements but does not specify any timeline or implementation details for anti-climb fencing at station steps or ramps.
“The Developers Handbook Approval and Authorisation Issue No. Date Comments C-05-OP-32-3001 This procedure will be reviewed at least annually and be revised as required. Printed copies of this document are uncontrolled. For the latest version click here: https://www.networkrail.co.uk/running-the-railway/looking-after-the-railway/asset-protection-and-optimisation/ or contact: Asset Protection Co”
No evidence found does not mean the action did not happen.
Stated action · timescale: 2 December 2016
“In relation to the wooden gate, this gate will be upgraded by the 2° December 2016, as part of a comprehensive upgrade to the fencing at this site.”
What happened next: Evidence found that the action was carried out
Network Rail confirmed the wooden gate upgrade was completed by 2 December 2016 as part of a fencing upgrade project.
“Works were completed successfully, with purpose designed anti climb fencing along the full extent of the parapets to prevent unauthorised access”
“Over 15000 metres of new fencing and gates have been installed at nearly 300 stations across Kent, Sussex and south London as part of a £2.3”
Stated action · timescale: 15
“e We have commissioned works to enhance the fencing and gates in this area. These works will be delivered by 15”
What happened next: Evidence found that the action was carried out
Network Rail maintains fencing to secure railway boundaries and deter trespass, with regular inspections mentioned in its public materials.
“Installation of fencing along the railroad right-of-way to deter unauthorized access. ROW) fencing aims to prevent pedestrians from entering the railroad ROW.”
“We use fences to mark the boundary of our land. They also serve as a deterrent to prevent trespass and vandalism. Part of a structure, buildings - and occasionally natural screens of thorny shrubs - can also act as railway boundaries.”
Stated action · timescale: 2018 renewals plan
“Network Rail has reviewed the active fencing proposals for upgrade on both sides of the track in the section where the incident occurred and have included these in our 2018 renewals plan”
What happened next: Evidence found that the action was carried out
Network Rail confirmed it reviewed active fencing proposals for the incident location and included them in its 2018 renewals plan.
“Review of Network Rail's proposed costs October 2018 Contents About this document 4 Context 6 1. Introduction 10 Overall approach 14 Issues and limitations 16 2. Maintenance and renewals costs 17 Overall context 17 Asset management planning 18 Cost planning and estimation 48 Delivery Planning 60 Significant changes since draft determination 82 3. Research and development costs 83 Assessment”
“Renewals Planned expenditure £19.3bn There are two key elements of our renewals expenditure: - Core asset renewals - the replacement or life extension of our core assets (e.g. track, structures, drainage) when they have reached the end of their working life, are obsolete, or have degraded to a state where safe operation and reliable performance can no longer be realised.”
Stated action · timescale: 17 May 2017
“in line with this recommendation, an inspection was undertaken by Network Rail's local operations team on 17 May 2017 to establish ownership and condition of the boundary fencing”
What happened next: No evidence found either way
Network Rail conducted an inspection of the boundary fencing on 17 May 2017 as part of its standard procedures.
No evidence found does not mean the action did not happen.
No specific action could be extracted with a verified quote.
Stated action · timescale: end of September 2018
“Network Rail is planning to apply mitigation measures (wire mesh panels with base plated fence posts fixed to the top of the parapet walls) to the parapet walls to further deter access to the track below. An order has now been placed with Network Rail's framework contractors in respect of these works, with an anticipated completion date of the end of September 2018.”
What happened next: Evidence found that the action was carried out
Network Rail has ordered mitigation measures including wire mesh panels and base plated fence posts to deter track access, with completion targeted for the end of September 2018.
“Works were completed successfully, with purpose designed anti climb fencing along the full extent of the parapets to prevent unauthorised access”
“Our work keeps Britain moving. From maintaining and upgrading thousands of miles of track to delivering major infrastructure projects, we ensure the railway is safe, reliable, and sustainable.”
“Railway Fencing Security Solutions Jacksons Fencing has vast experience in enhancing security and reducing noise for trackside applications, railway stations, and storage and maintenance depots.”
Stated action · timescale: by the end of 2018 with some being finished in early 2019
“In your report, you state that”
What happened next: Evidence found that the action was carried out
Network Rail has installed platform fencing and safety gates across several South East stations to reduce trespass incidents.
“Over 15000 metres of new fencing and gates have been installed at nearly 300 stations across Kent, Sussex and south London as part of a £2.3”
“Trespass and Suicide Mitigation initiatives (platform end gates, hotspot management, safety films, etc.);”
“The platform boundary combines see-through and opaque fencing to enhance natural visibility and sightlines and minimise blind spots.”
No specific action could be extracted with a verified quote.
Stated action
“seriously and has taken additional measures beyond those required by its standards, to install additional meshing and netting at this location to act as an increased deterrent to climbing”
No specific action could be extracted with a verified quote.
No specific action could be extracted with a verified quote.
No specific action could be extracted with a verified quote.
No specific action could be extracted with a verified quote.
No specific action could be extracted with a verified quote.
Stated action
“Following notification of the Regulation 28 report, a member of the Investigation Review Team within the British Transport Police was commissioned to review the investigation of [the deceased], the scope of this review was limited to the matters of concern. This review offered recommendations of which a number are included within this response.”
No specific action could be extracted with a verified quote.
No specific action could be extracted with a verified quote.
No specific action could be extracted with a verified quote.
- Each report's concerns were extracted by Nemotron 3 Nano on Nebius Token Factory, each with a quote copied from the report.
- Concerns from reports to Network Rail at least six months apart were compared by meaning (Qwen3 embeddings) and wording (TF-IDF).
- The closest pairs were judged by Nemotron 3 Super with reasoning on. Only identical or closely related, with confidence of at least 0.70, are shown.
- Every quote was checked by code as an exact substring of the original text. Names of staff and family are redacted, and the deceased are named by report title only.
| Link | Meaning | Wording | Judge | Coroner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 → 2017 | 0.81 | 0.25 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2016 → 2017 | 0.75 | 0.26 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2016 → 2017 | 0.72 | 0.17 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2017 → 2017 | 0.78 | 0.29 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2016 → 2017 | 0.80 | 0.18 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2016 → 2017 | 0.74 | 0.19 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2017 → 2018 | 0.70 | 0.16 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2016 → 2018 | 0.80 | 0.35 | Closely related · 0.92 | different |
| 2017 → 2018 | 0.73 | 0.22 | Identical · 0.95 | different |
| 2017 → 2018 | 0.71 | 0.16 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2016 → 2019 | 0.80 | 0.34 | Identical · 0.95 | different |
| 2016 → 2019 | 0.71 | 0.35 | Closely related · 0.92 | different |
| 2017 → 2019 | 0.78 | 0.29 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2016 → 2019 | 0.74 | 0.34 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2017 → 2019 | 0.73 | 0.31 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2018 → 2019 | 0.74 | 0.27 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2018 → 2019 | 0.65 | 0.16 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2018 → 2020 | 0.86 | 0.22 | Identical · 0.95 | different |
| 2018 → 2020 | 0.70 | 0.46 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2016 → 2020 | 0.77 | 0.28 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2017 → 2020 | 0.79 | 0.14 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2020 → 2021 | 0.79 | 0.30 | Identical · 0.90 | different |
| 2018 → 2021 | 0.80 | 0.25 | Closely related · 0.86 | different |
| 2019 → 2021 | 0.62 | 0.33 | Identical · 0.90 | different |
| 2018 → 2024 | 0.88 | 0.32 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2017 → 2024 | 0.76 | 0.17 | Closely related · 0.90 | different |
| 2020 → 2024 | 0.83 | 0.48 | Closely related · 0.85 | different |
| 2016 → 2024 | 0.76 | 0.28 | Closely related · 0.85 | different |
| 2020 → 2025 | 0.84 | 0.24 | Identical · 0.90 | different |
Judge model: nvidia/nemotron-3-super-120b-a12b. How Nemotron did the work · Full methodology.
Drafted by Nemotron 3 Ultra and reviewed by a person before publication.
Between 2016 and 2018, coroners raised repeated concerns about public access to the railway network due to inadequate boundary fencing, low walls, missing end-of-platform barriers, and accessible live rails. Reports highlighted broken or low fencing, wooden gates providing little deterrence, and a lack of signage warning of live rail dangers. Network Rail responded with promises to upgrade fencing, install acoustic fencing and anti-climb measures, place wire mesh panels on parapet walls, and construct barriers at specific stations, with several works targeted for completion in 2018. However, no published response was found for the 2018 report. In 2019, a coroner again raised concerns about a low wooden fence easily climbed despite a prior British Transport Police recommendation for replacement. Network Rail stated it had installed additional meshing and netting as an increased deterrent. In 2020 and 2021, further reports identified absent physical boundaries at platform ends, emergency telephones adjacent to tracks, and insufficient signage regarding live rail risks. No published response was found for the 2021 report.
Questions a coroner might ask
- What is the current standard for boundary fencing height and anti-climb measures at locations identified as high risk for public access?
- How does Network Rail monitor the condition and effectiveness of boundary fencing and barriers across the network following installation?
- What process exists to ensure that recommendations from British Transport Police Post Incident Site Reports are tracked and implemented?
- How are decisions made regarding the prioritisation of end-of-platform barriers at stations with live rails at ground level?
- What measures are in place to manage street furniture or infrastructure on bridges that may facilitate access to railway walls?
- How does Network Rail verify that mitigation measures, such as wire mesh panels or acoustic fencing, remain effective over time?
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Other chains for Network Rail
This shows that a similar concern was raised again after an earlier report. It does not say why, and it is not a finding about any organisation or person. To report an error, see the corrections route.