ScotRail to increase services through Falkirk district

ScotRail has announced it is increasing the number of services it operates across Scotland from Monday, August 3.

The operator says 100 per cent of normal capacity will be provided during peak travel hours, although many seats will need to remain empty to maintain physical distancing.

All routes will have normal early morning, late night and peak services.

However the suspension of driver training during the Covid-19 pandemic due to physical distancing rules making it impossible for two people to sit in the driver’s cab at the same time, means it’s not yet possible for a full service to operate.

Where there must be a reduced service, ScotRail has confirmed it will be at the times of the day when fewest people travel.

The increase in services comes ahead of the expected reopening of schools on August 11, which could result in an increase in the number of people travelling by train.

David Simpson, ScotRail Operations Director, said: “Thanks to the hard work of staff across Scotland’s Railway, we’ll operate as close to a normal timetable as possible from Monday, 3 August.

"Like businesses across the world, we continue to face challenges caused by coronavirus, but we will have every available train in service from 3 August.“We do need everybody to continue taking personal responsibility for their travel choices, because physical distancing can’t be guaranteed. Customers who do travel with ScotRail should follow our five rules for safer travel, including the wearing of a face covering on trains and at stations.”

ScotRail’s five rules for safer travel are:

- Do not travel if you feel unwell or have a temperature.

- Travel away from the main commuting times (7am to 9am and 4pm to 6.30pm) wherever possible, as trains will be busiest around then.

- 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.

In recent weeks, a number of measures have been introduced to keep staff and passengers safe.

Face coverings are mandatory at stations and on all trains.

Platform markings and guidance at ticket vending machines are supporting station announcements and messages on customer information screens, to help customers during their journey.Customers are reminded to buy tickets in advance of travel via the ScotRail app, website, or station facilities to ensure waiting times are reduced and physical distancing supported.

A move to a minimum of one metre physical distancing on trains and at stations came into effect on Monday, July 27.