Explained: why the Mallard now has a ‘concentration camp-like’ fence around the back door
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Scotrail have erected a fence around the exit to a popular Ross-shire watering hole in a move that left both locals and the new landlords scratching their heads about the reasons behind the decision.
The government-owned rail franchise decided that it would be safer for punters on matchdays as dozens of fans often gather on the platform of the pub which is located right next to Dingwall railway station.
The move sparked questions about crowd control as now punters have only a very small place to drink outside and many football supporters mob the platform on matchdays.
Scotrail explained that is why they erected the fence but neither the current landlords Diogo Montiero and Raffael Santos nor Councillor Sean Kennedy who used to run the pub believe it will work, and suggest there may be another motive for the fence.
Cllr Kennedy said: “The reasons that Scotrail have given for putting up that fence don’t really stand-up to the reality of big match days at The Mallard. I suspect Scotrail’s actions have a lot more to do with the former landlord.
“Certainly, if I was still in charge of the pub I would be more concerned about crowd control with the fence rather than without it. Where are the fans supposed to go? Outside on the platform – basically outside the pub control.
“As a pub landlord, when dealing with neighbours whether they are companies like Scotrail or residents – you have to be respectful and you have to make an effort to see their perspective.
“Now if that did not happen, that would have created a problem. I talked to Scotrail in my time to resolve issues about the platform – the fact is that there is a way through this.
“I certainly wish the present landlords all the best and hope with the help of Greene King the premises licence holders, something can be done further down the line to resolve the issue of the fence.”
Mr Monteiro expressed his disappointment that the fence went up but said he wants to work with Scotrail and the brewer Greene King to try and resolve the matter.
“The erection of the fence is related to the previous landlords rather than ourselves and so it is a great disappointment to see this though we understand Scotrail’s concerns even if we were not the cause of them,” he said.
“We have been running the National and the Stag Pub in Dingwall for many months now and have never really had a serious problem or complaint and that is how we run The Mallard.
“Of course we will be in talks with the brewers who own the pub and Scotrail as well because we want to have a good relationship with both of them and we will see what can be done in the future.”
A Scotrail spokesman said: “The fence was installed by ScotRail, and the work has been done in full consultation with the estate manager of Greene King. There has also been local contact with the licensee.
“There have previously been large numbers of people on the platform on football match days, and the fence will help to ensure their safety, and keep them away from the railway.
“There is of course enough space for a safe evacuation of the premises.”
