Newbold Metrolink stop could receive netting over stones to prevent antisocial behaviour

The stones at the Newbold Metrolink tram stop could be covered by netting to stop youths throwing them.

The Metrolink stop at Newbold has particularly drawn complaints about vandalism and antisocial behaviour.

Despite numerous crackdowns on antisocial behaviour over the years, it is still a problem.

Former councillor David Clayton requested the stones be covered last month after windows of nearby homes and the Kingsway medical practice were smashed by youths throwing the stones.

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/119835/former-councillor-calls-for-cctv-at-tram-stop-due-to-ongoing-antisocial-behaviour-concerns

Mr Clayton said: “I have been chasing this issue for some time, but it looks as though we might be getting somewhere with the stones that are being thrown by youths. The stones are easy to pick up as they are not netted in as they are in other areas.”

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham confirmed: “I am aware that investigations are currently underway for a form of track netting to be used, however its use on the operational network would be subject to it passing various safety checks.”

Speaking when the requests were made, TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, Danny Vaughan, said: “Safety and security is our top priority and we take concerns like this very seriously. Unfortunately, antisocial behaviour is an issue across Greater Manchester, including on our network, and Rochdale will continue to be an area of focus for TravelSafe and other partners, including local police, council and youth engagement teams.

"Newbold is currently covered by ten CCTV cameras, which are monitored 24/7 by control room staff, who can report any issues to the police. In the past we have also installed additional cameras, removed ballast and planted spiky plants, to restrict access to areas away from the platform.

“We are currently trialling the use of netting to restrict access to the track ballast. The trial will establish whether this approach is safe, effective and maintainable. If it is a success then it will be one of a number of tactics considered to help tackle ASB on the network, including Newbold.

“Alongside other agencies we are also involved in targeted youth outreach programmes to raise awareness of the risks and consequences associated with ASB.”

The TravelSafe Partnership is a multi-agency approach set up to tackle and deter incidents of crime and ASB on the region’s transport network. It is made up of GMP, TfGM, KeolisAmey Metrolink, First and Stagecoach.

As well as PCs and PCSOs, the unit is made up of TravelSafe Officers (TSOs), a security team dedicated to the Metrolink network.

The unit works together to target patrols in key areas at key times.

All TSOs as well as Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) are equipped with body-worn cameras to reassure passengers and help deter incidents from occurring.