ScotRail has announced it is enhancing services on the West Highland Line with longer trains.
The train operator says it will operate seven-carriage trains between Glasgow and Crianlarich and five-carriage trains between Crianlarich and Fort William, from tomorrow (Tuesday 11 March).
The improvements have been made possible due to the completion of platform extension works by Network Rail, which now allow the train operator to make better use of its Highland Explorer carriages. The use of active travel carriages had previously been restricted on services due to platform length limitations.
The Highland Explorer carriages will be used on the following services:
- 12:22 Glasgow to Fort William.
- 17:37 from Fort William to Glasgow (starting in Mallaig).
ScotRail will also begin its summer service strengthening tomorrow, earlier than in previous years.
Traditionally starting from the last weekend in March, this year summer strengthening will start on 11 March to accommodate increased demand.
ScotRail is adding additional carriages to the following trains:
- 08:15 Fort William to Mallaig.
- 08:22 Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig.
- 10:10 Mallaig and Fort William to Glasgow.
- 12:22 Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig.
- 16:05 Mallaig and Fort William to Glasgow.
- 18:15 Mallaig to Fort William.
ScotRail says these enhancements will provide more space for bicycles and luggage, and more seats for customers and active travel users, ensuring a more efficient and comfortable journey along the scenic West Highland Line.
Scott Prentice, ScotRail strategy & planning director, said: “ScotRail is committed to enhancing connectivity and making rail travel more convenient, and accessible, for all.
“The introduction of longer trains on the West Highland Line is great news for our customers. These improvements will provide additional space and comfort, particularly for those travelling with bikes and outdoor equipment.”
Ross Moran, Network Rail Scotland Route Director, commented: “With £1.7 million in funding from the Scottish Government, we extended eight station platforms along the West Highland Line to allow longer trains to be introduced.
“We know passengers value this iconic route, especially for accessing Scotland’s great outdoors, and their experience will now be significantly enhanced.”
For more information on ScotRail’s Highland Explorer carriages, visit www.scotrail.co.uk/scotrail-highland-explorer.
Image credit: ScotRail
