Rail commuters in Dumbarton and the Vale are being urged to plan their journeys in advance, with timetables changing from next weekend (December 13) in response to a drop in demand.
Since lockdown restrictions were introduced in March, commuters have been urged to only make essential journeys by rail – with year-on-year figures showing an 85 percent drop in passenger numbers on Scotland’s railways.
Operator Scotrail has noted a clear switch away from regular peak commuting times, with the frequency of services between Glasgow and Edinburgh now reduced to half-hourly rather than every 15 minutes, whilst the half-hourly Monday-Saturday daytime service between Dumbarton Central and Springburn is set to stop running.
Urging people to check timetables before travelling, Scotrail operations director David Simpson said: “Throughout the pandemic, everyone across Scotland’s railway has worked tirelessly to deliver a robust and reliable timetable, with services across the country keeping key workers moving.
“This revised timetable allows us to continue delivering that reliable and vital rail service, but better reflects the reduced demand and changing nature of travel in Scotland and the need to ensure value for taxpayer money.
“Fewer people are travelling during the morning and evening peaks because of more flexible work arrangements. Our targeted approach will deliver more than enough seats to allow customers to travel safely.
“Our staff have done a fantastic job in an unprecedented environment for the rail industry. This revised timetable will mean we are better placed to manage any reduction in staff availability due to coronavirus restrictions.”
