Moray SNP News

LOCHHEAD SEEKS TALKS WITH RAIL BOSS

Moray’s MSP is seeking a meeting with the Managing Director of Abellio ScotRail, Phil Verster, to discuss concerns about a number of rail issues raised with him by constituents, including the frequency at which the 0724 train from Elgin to Inverness is cancelled.

Mr Lochhead has been contacted by a number of rail users from Elgin, who rely on the 0724 service for their daily commute, expressing their frustration that this service was cancelled three times in the month of August alone, and there have been further cancellations since. 

He will also raise concerns with the Managing Director about the application process for the new Club 50, which can only be completed online.  Constituents have pointed out to Mr Lochhead that not all customers have internet access and those who don’t are discriminated against and cannot take advantage of the scheme.

Ahead of his meeting, Mr Lochhead is keen to hear from Moray rail users about their experiences of Abellio ScotRail since they took over the franchise and would welcome the feedback of constituents.

Richard Lochhead MSP said:

“I was concerned to hear from a number of constituents that the 0724 service has been cancelled on numerous occasions, causing real disruption to those who rely on the service for their daily commute.

“I wrote to the Managing Director, Phil Verster, seeking an explanation for these cancellations and asking that we meet to discuss this, and other rail issues affecting passengers in Moray.  When we meet I will be pressing him to take steps to ensure that the situation improves and that the 0724 service returns to being a reliable one for passengers travelling west from Elgin and Forres.

“Another issue which has been raised with me is the inability to take up the Club 50 offer unless you register online.  Clearly, this is a concern as not all constituents interested in benefitting have access to the internet and it is a concern that they are currently being disadvantaged.

“Ahead of meeting with Mr Verster, I’d be keen to hear from Moray rail users about their experiences so that I can make him aware of views held by local customers.”