Safety first for Metrolink

10:11am Wednesday 20th December 2006

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A new initiative to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour on the Metrolink system has been launched.

Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority (GMPTA) has hired a new security team to patrol the network throughout the day until the last service at night.

The uniformed Public Safety Officers will work in partnership with Greater Manchester Police and ticket inspectors to improve safety and security for passengers.

Councillor Roger Jones, Chair of GMPTA, said: "We want to persuade many more people to use public transport. I hope the new security team will help to reassure them that they'll be safe.

"We've hired Public Safety Officers on the Metrolink network in the past. However, this is the first time we've hired a team to patrol the system at all times of the day, seven days a week.

"I'm sure their presence will increase passengers' confidence in Metrolink as well as helping to prevent incidents of crime, anti-social behaviour and vandalism."

Four teams of Public Safety Officers, from Carlisle Security, will patrol the network every day. They will be managed by the tram operator, Serco. Each team will be made up of two officers, who will patrol trams, stops and car parks on all three Metrolink lines.

Passengers can report incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour, which do not require an emergency response, by calling the police on 0161 872 5050.