Security expert Abloy UK is highlighting the urgent need for greater security and access control on highways critical infrastructure across the UK, with many bridges, viaducts and tunnels at significant and costly risk of theft, vandalism and unauthorised access.
Instances of metal theft, graffiti, and property damage have been steadily rising, with critical infrastructure such as construction sites and transport assets being frequent targets.
For example, the construction industry faces an estimated annual loss of £800 million due to theft 1 , with 92% of construction site managers reporting theft and 91% experiencing vandalism on their sites 2 .
What’s more, bridges and tunnels, particularly in remote or less trafficked areas, are vulnerable to graffiti, arson, and damage from unauthorised access. Underbridges and viaducts often require costly repairs due to vehicle impact or intentional damage.
The loss or damage of infrastructure due to criminal activity not only leads to expensive repairs but can also severely disrupt the transportation network, impact the economy, and jeopardise public safety.
David Rock, Market Development Manager – Transport, at Abloy UK, explains: “These statistics demonstrate the urgent need for robust security and access control solutions across highways and transportation networks. With these vital assets at heightened risk, it’s imperative that measures are implemented to protect them from
potential disruptions and maintain public safety.
“To address these issues, we are advising that these types of assets within the highways infrastructure are secured with either superior mechanical, electromechanical or digital locking solutions, to mitigate the risk of theft, damage or vandalism.”
“Abloy UK is committed to supporting the highways sector in securing vital infrastructure and preventing costly disruptions. By implementing comprehensive access control solutions, highways authorities can enhance their security provision and mitigate the risk of theft and vandalism across critical sites.”
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