Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Kirsty McKenzie

ScotRail trains reduced from today in response to coronavirus crisis

Trains will move to a reduced timetable from today (Monday, March 23) in a bid to help control the outbreak of the coronavirus across Scotland.

ScotRail said the new schedule would be similar to the Sunday services and focus on delivering "an effective public transport service for key workers."

ScotRail and Network Rail say staff availability has been affected due to the outbreak, as well as customer demand, making changes to the timetable necessary.

Chiefs said reducing the number of trains in service would give more time for extra cleaning on trains and in depots, as well as more targeted cleaning at stations.

David Simpson,operations director at ScotRail said staff were “absolutely committed and are working flat out on the front line to help keep the country moving, while also keeping themselves and customers safe”.

He added: “The railway has an important role to play during this crisis and we will work closely with the Scottish Government to do all we can as the situation develops.”

The timetable will be kept under regular review to react to any further developments.

Tickets will also no longer be sold on trains, with rail passengers advised to buy them at station offices and machines.

Scottish Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said: "Constructive dialogue has been held with rail unions with discussion focused on protecting rail staff while they make a significant contribution to keeping passengers and goods moving as much as possible in these challenging circumstances."

We have a rolling live blog of coronavirus updates for anyone following this ongoing story - or you can join the conversation on our Glasgow coronavirus updates Facebook group.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.