The ScotRail Peak Fares Removal Pilot Set to Run from 2 October 2023 to 29 March 2024
In an update to Parliament, the Minister confirmed dates for the pilot which forms a key part of the transport commitments in its recently published Programme for Government.
During the pilot, all off-peak fares and products that are set and controlled by ScotRail will be valid for travel all day.
The Programme for Government makes clear our commitment to encourage a shift towards sustainable transport. We know that there is much to be done in encouraging people back to rail if we are to achieve our net zero targets.
Ms HYSLOP
This peak fare removal pilot is aimed at achieving this by making ticketing simpler with off-peak fares valid all day. This is an exciting and unique opportunity to encourage more people to choose a safe, reliable, and greener form of public transport.
This is a fantastic chance for Scotland’s Railway to encourage more people to choose rail travel over driving.
GRAEME
Each member of the ScotRail team is dedicated to making sure that this six-month trial proves successful. They will conduct daily station assessments to gauge any rise in customer numbers.
Recognising that cost and convenience play pivotal roles in people’s travel decisions, I am eager to see the results of this fare reduction.
This pilot will come as welcome news for families as the October school holidays approach. Together with the ScotRail ‘Kids for a Quid’ offer, there will be significant savings available for day trips.
The Scottish Government will carefully consider the impact of the pilot and the long-term sustainability of such a proposition before committing to any reinstatement of the pilot after 29 March 2024.
