Transport Scotland announce £3M funding to improve rail

Funding of £3.13M has been awarded to Scotland’s railway, to improve passenger comfort and accessibility on railways.

Transport Scotland have announced £3.13M funding, which will go towards improving passenger facilities and increasing accessibility on board trains and in stations.

The funding will help enhance day-to-day passenger experience on routes across the network, improving wifi coverage and existing franchise commitments designed to boost tourism and the economy.

The funding is through the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government, announced by the First Minister earlier this month.

Investments include a new ticket office at Blairhill station, as well as the installation of ticket vending machines in the ten busiest stations yet to have one.

Air conditioning will be upgraded across Class 158 trains, which will serve on Scotland’s world famous “scenic routes” in the west and north Highlands as well as the Borders line from late 2018.

In order to help target overcrowded trains, additional passenger counting equipment will be installed across the ScotRail fleet.

Upgraded wi-fi equipment and the installation of tables for wheelchair areas on the new Class 385 trains will be introduced from Autumn 2017.

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said: “By investing in our public transport links, not only are we aiming to reduce the number of cars and congestion on our roads, but we’re helping cut carbon emissions and create a greener society.

“The Scottish Government is committed to making public transport a more accessible and attractive option, meaning that increasing numbers of people can use it as an alternative to car travel.

“This extra funding recognises our commitment to improving accessibility and passenger experience across the rail network. It complements the overall £5 billion investment that the Scottish Government is making in Scotland’s railways to 2019 and will mean more people will be able to take the train in greater comfort than ever before.”

ScotRail’s Managing Director Phil Verster said: “This investment in improving rail facilities – both on-train and around our stations – is what makes customer experience all the more positive.

“Our customers expect a wide-ranging package of services when they travel with us, from efficient methods of ticket purchase, readily available wi-fi and comfortable trains to technology and extensive station facilities. All of these improvements show we’re committed to making their rail travel enjoyable and efficient.”

 

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