LONGER TRAINS AT SHORTER PLATFORMS
What stations have shorter platforms than the new trains?
Barassie, Bogston, Cartsdyke, Dalry, Drumfrochar, Fairlie, Glengarnock, Howwood, IBM, Inverkip, Langbank, Lochwinnoch, Milliken Park, Newton on Ayr, Stevenston, West Kilbride, and Whinhill.
In addition platforms at these stations will not be lengthened until early 2011: Irvine, Johnstone, Kilwinning, Prestwick Town and Troon.
How will this affect me?
It depends on your journey. Doors at the rear of longer trains will not open at stations with shorter platforms. This won’t matter when boarding as you can get into any carriage from within the train.
However, if you want to leave the train at a station with a shorter platform, and you're not in one of the front five carriages, you will have to move forward through the train.
How will I know if I’m in a rear carriage?
Listen and watch for announcements when approaching a station with a shorter platform. You will only hear and see these if you’re in a rear carriage. If you want to get off, leave plenty of time to make your way through the train – in the direction of travel. On-train staff can also help if you’re unsure.
What happens if I have a bike, pram or buggy?
Small buggies can pass between carriages, but larger prams cannot so if you are unsure you are best to board one of the front five carriages - as should cyclists.
Is this system safe?
Yes, it’s a tried and tested method throughout the UK. Thousands of passengers join and leave trains this way every day.
ADVICE FOR DISABLED CUSTOMERS
The class 380s comply with European accessibility requirements for people with reduced mobility.
For info on how these longer trains may affect your journey see below – or click here for the full guide (see page four).
Where should I board the train?
You should always board one of the front five carriages. This mean you can alight at any station – even one with a shorter platform.
At all stations, at least two wheelchair spaces and one accessible toilet will be available in the platformed part of the train.
What do I do if I board a rear carriage by mistake and wish to alight at a station with a shorter platform?
If you are a wheelchair user, you should wait to alight at the next station with a full length platform. A member of staff – either at the station or via the customer HelpPoint telephone - will arrange alternative transport to take you to your station.
How do I book assistance to travel on these trains?
The process is exactly the same as for our existing fleet. Full details are in our Disabled People’s Protection Policy.
For more information about planned journeys, contact ScotRail’s Assisted Travel Helpline on 0800 912 2 901 or Text Relay Service (for hard of hearing) on 1800 0800 912 2 901.
