ScotRail delivering punctual service to support key worker travel

Last updated: Friday, 3 July 2020

ScotRail has delivered a fourth consecutive period of strong punctuality for customers across Scotland’s Railway according to new figures published today, Friday, 3 July.

Figures for the most recent period of performance (31 May – 27 June) show that 95.4 per cent of ScotRail trains met the rail industry standard Public Performance Measure (PPM).

ScotRail has been operating a revised timetable throughout the COVID-19 outbreak to allow doctors, nurses, care workers, and others to travel and maintain a safe physical distance while they carry out their essential work.

During this period, there was a further increase to that timetable on Monday, 15 June, with 60 per cent of a normal timetable in operation, and 70 per cent of the normal seating provided.

Although some lockdown restrictions have now been eased through the Scottish Government’s Transport Transition Plan, travel on ScotRail services remains for those who do have an alternative means of travel.

The train operator has issued five rules for safer travel, which urge anyone travelling on Scotland’s Railway to follow the mandatory face covering guidance, and to avoid travelling at peak commuting times.

ScotRail’s five rules for safer travel:

  • Do not travel if you feel unwell or have a temperature.
  • Travel away from the main commuting times (0700 – 0900 and 1600 – 1830) wherever possible, as trains will be busiest around then. The earliest and latest trains serve key workers, like NHS and care home staff.
  • If you think it’s not safe to board a train, don’t do it and wait for another service.
  • Wear a face mask or covering and, where possible, maintain physical distancing.
  • Be patient. You might not be able to board your first choice of train, as physical distancing means most seats need to be left empty.

Earlier this week ScotRail thanked customers for wearing face coverings while making essential journeys and following its five rules for safer travel on Scotland’s Railway.

But the operator has reminded customers they must take personal responsibility for their travel choices. Scotland’s Railway cannot guarantee physical distancing at all stages of a customer’s journey.

David Simpson, Operations Director, said:

“Scotland’s Railway has played a critical role during a very challenging time for the country and I am delighted with the hard work and commitment of our people, to keep services moving.

“We have set our very clear five rules for travel and we thank customers for following that guidance and helping to keep everyone safe.

“As we move toward the further easing of restrictions, we again urge our customers to take personal responsibility, consider alternative transport options, and make sure our services are available for those who have no other option.”