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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Christina O'Neill

Trains reduced to core services during coronavirus outbreak

Trains will be cut back to core services to help tackle the spread of coronavirus, rail bosses have announced.

A revised timetable will be introduced from Monday March 23, focusing 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 creates opportunities for additional cleaning activities on trains, and in depots, and allows more targeted cleaning at stations.

With more railway staff being affected by the impact of the coronavirus, revising services also accommodates infrastructure changes, and allows safety critical roles to be performed across the country.

Several services are affected this evening (Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

David Simpson, ScotRail Operations Director, said: "We are facing an unprecedented challenge on Scotland’s Railway and the revised timetable will help to provide a critical service for the key workers across the country.

"Our own people are absolutely committed and are working flat out on the frontline to help keep the country moving, while also keeping themselves and customers safe.

"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."

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