Some time ago someone I believe who was a BT police officer tried to set up an Approved Spotter scheme, with a badge to show staff
Clearly it did not get off the ground, Shame it would have given us the right to be there, and save worrying the suicide prevention people
I dont think we have a “right” to be there, just the same rights as a passenger at best, and most of us usually are passengers as well.
Thing is how does carrying an “ID” help ? If we have to sign in, its the same as carrying an ID. I’m not against signing in, Ive found where I have signed in, the carpet has been rolled out on a few occasions. Railriders was a good PR activity that linked the hobby with the industry, but i’m not sure the new railriders really does that.
A good website where we could “check in” might suffice.
What I think is hard is where “pre-approval” is needed, which is where TFL seems to be heading.. how does emailing 2 weeks ahead of time work on a 1Z99 coming in 2 hours?
this link is pretty clear (and very commercial) but the essence on private photography is on “passing through” a station, which suggests hanging around is not…(very bottom of page).
The TfL Film Office offers guidance and issues permits to film or photograph on TfL
tfl.gov.uk
The links for Southern and Network Rail are much less restrictive /less commercial.
(Southerns website link doesnt work, but their page can be found here)
(and the broken link is this one to Network Rail, ive emailed them twice but its still not updated)
What you need to know about photography and film at our stations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
www.networkrail.co.uk