Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson, SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, has sought assurances that the next rail franchise will contain guarantees to deliver improvements to the rolling stock used on rail services in the Highlands.

Transport Minister Keith Brown was making a statement on the extension of the current ScotRail franchise, and Dave took the opportunity to highlight areas in which the service in the Highlands could be improved.

Commenting on this, Dave said: “Some journeys through my constituency can last three or even four hours, and we must ensure that trains are adequately equipped in terms of storage space and luggage facilities to cope with this.

“Longer journeys mean ensuring the comfort of all passengers is important, but none more so than disabled passengers, as at present priority seating can be limited. I have also spoken to a number of my constituents who are concerned that heating is inadequate on some carriages.

“Some stations are not accessible for wheelchairs, and we have situations where disabled passengers are transferred to other stations in order to board trains. It is essential that the next franchise improves the carriage and station facilities to ensure they are accessible and comfortable for all passengers.

The current provision for luggage and cycles is inadequate, especially considering that journeys through the Highlands are generally longer than those elsewhere in Scotland. There could also be a better provision of toilet facilities for longer journeys.

Dave also welcomed the confirmation that funding was being provided jointly by the Scottish and Westminster Government for sleeper services, and that the UK Government had removed an unrealistic demand that the funding be used within a period of six months.

Dave added: “I was pleased that the Minister recognised the concerns that I raised over the service. We should always seek ways to improve the quality of the service on offer, and recognising the challenges that are faced particularly on longer-distance trains is welcome.

“The new timetable that has recently started for trains between the Highlands and the central belt has reduced the journey time, and I am pleased that the Minister has agreed with me that there is a need to also deliver improvements for passengers comfort.

“I am confident that the Minister will ensure that the next franchise contains commitments to deliver real improvements to the rail service for the people of Scotland.

Note:

Below is the text of Dave’s Question and the Minister’s response from the official report

Dave Thompson (Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch) (SNP): Will the specification for services to the Highlands in the next rail franchise include better provision for luggage and cycles to cater for holidaymakers and better provision for disabled passengers? Will the general comfort of passengers and the provision of adequate toilet facilities be given more consideration, given that we are talking about long journeys of several hours and that the current rolling stock is inadequate in that respect?

Keith Brown: I have a great deal of sympathy with the points that Dave Thompson makes. Bidders for the next franchise will be asked to demonstrate how they will improve the comfort and the suitability of longer-distance trains over the life of the franchise.