Perthshire North MSP, Mr John Swinney, Perth and North Perthshire MP, Mr Pete Wishart, and Perthshire South and Kinross-shire MSP, Mr Jim Fairlie have today welcomed news that Scotrail will amend their ‘Fit for the Future’ proposed service changes.
Scotrail confirmed the news in response to their consultation on the proposed changes, which closed on October 2nd 2021.
Under the original proposals, journeys between Edinburgh and Perth would be via Dunfermline, thus increasing travel times significantly. Mr Swinney, Mr Fairlie and Mr Wishart, in addition to taking part in the formal Scotrail consultation, also made representations to Scotrail management regarding the proposed service changes.
Commenting, Mr Swinney said:
“I am pleased that Scotrail have listened to the legitimate concerns raised by my constituents. It is absolutely vital for the continued economic development of Perth that it maintains strong rail links with Edinburgh.
“Moreover, I note that steps have been taken to provide a better southbound service for my constituents living in the Blair Atholl area. Whilst it appears that only one additional southbound journey has been added per day, they are better timed and will allow local residents to travel in to Perth for 9am. This is welcome news that will allow those living in Blair Atholl to consider applying for jobs in Perth that operate within standard working hours.
“It is vital that rail travel continues to be accessible to all my constituents, regardless of their location, and I will continue to monitor this issue in the months and years ahead.”
Mr Wishart added:
"I welcome today's announcement from Scotrail that they are improving services on their Perth-Edinburgh line.
"This is a massive turnaround from their original plan, which would have significantly increased journey times.
"Advancing Perth's rail connectivity is a key factor in delivering on local and national green ambitions. Not only that but is necessary in ensuring that Perth remains an attractive place to live and work.
"I hope that Scotrail keeps up this momentum by continuing to look at new ways to improve their services to and from Perth."
Mr Fairlie added:
“I am really pleased to hear that Scotrail listened to the concerns raised as part of the recent consultation on services from Perth to Edinburgh.
“ The original proposals would have made the journey from Perth to Edinburgh even longer than it is today, and many constituents contacted me to raise this as a concern. We need to look at ways to make the service more convenient for passengers, and as part of ongoing investment in rail, the Scottish Government have proposed enhancements which will improve services on the Perth-Edinburgh line.”
NOTES – https://www.scotrail.co.uk/about-scotrail/fit-future - Scotrail’s response to the consultation
