The Friends of the Far North Line
Cairdean Na Loine Tuath
the campaign group for rail north of
Inverness - lobbying for improved services for the local user, tourist and freight
operator
Witches' Hats have appeared on the Far North Line - yes, that is their official name!
They are cone shaped platform end markers used in conjunction with barriers and locked gates.
New stations routinely feature such systems to deter unauthorised access, via platform end steps and ramps, to railway tracks and associated dangers. Trespass related incidents are also a concern on the Far North Line, hence the installation of some of these features at several of the stations to visually augment the existing red No Trespassing signs.
However this has resulted in a rather peculiar outcome when comparing similar platforms.
Consider Muir of Ord Station for example:
There are similar variations to be found at other stations, such as Invergordon, Tain and Ardgay, and only about half of the smaller stations include any of these new visual deterrents to trespass. As trespass can often go undetected in rural areas, there is a case for greater consistency.
The witches' hats are made from recycled tyres, especially from aircraft. They can often be seen in large panels between the rails to deter people from venturing off the roadway at level crossings.