Scotrail to reduce timetable due to coronavirus pandemic

SCOTRAIL is set to reduce its train service nationwide from next week due to the "unprecedented challenge" of the coronavirus pandemic.

With customer demand and staff availability falling, the new timetable will represent a "significant change" and will be introduced on Monday, March 23.

The 8.02am and 4pm services from Wick, for example, are now cancelled along with the 10.36am and 6.30pm trains heading to Caithness from Inverness.

Throughout the network, specialist cleaning teams are disinfecting all surfaces at stations that may have been touched and all trains are undergoing deep cleans.

ScotRail say they have made the timetable with a specific focus on delivering an effective service for key workers. The timetable will be kept under regular review.

David Simpson, ScotRail operations director, said: "We are facing an unprecedented challenge on Scotland’s railway and the revised timetable will help to provide a critical service for the key workers across the country.

"Our own people are absolutely committed and are working flat out on the frontline to help keep the country moving, while also keeping themselves and customers safe.

"The railway has an important role to play during this crisis and we will work closely with the Scottish Government to do all we can as the situation develops."

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