3 February 2003
Rail and Subway fare freeze
New Cumbernauld Sunday service and extra capacity on SPT rail network
Strathclyde Passenger Transport (SPT) is set to freeze rail and Subway fares and to introduce a substantial package of benefits for the rail network, all aimed at encouraging people to return to public transport.
Reports going to the SPT Authority meeting this Friday (7 February) recommend a zero percent increase on SPT's rail and Subway fares to encourage lost patronage back to the network after recent disruptions resulted in a decrease in passenger numbers in what was a growing market.
Passengers in Cumbernauld are also set to benefit from the introduction of a new Sunday rail service from 18 May, thanks to SPT. Any hourly rail service between Cumbernauld and Glasgow is being made possible as a result of the compensation package SPT negotiated with ScotRail after last years drivers dispute. The service will see 15 trips each way between Cumbernauld and Glasgow.
After looking at passenger numbers on key services SPT has agreed to utilise the rolling stock intended for the new Larkhall - Milngavie service, until the construction of the project is complete, to increase capacity. Two new Juniper trains will be used to lengthen existing services to reduce overcrowding and increase passenger comfort.
Commenting on the reports Councillor Eric Ross, Chair of SPT, said: "The Strathclyde area has a fantastic public transport network and it is vital that we keep improving it and encouraging more people to use it. The measures before the Authority this week will play some part in that.
"SPT is committed to doing all it can to increase the use of public transport and after the difficult time that has faced the rail industry there is no doubt that a freeze on rail fares will be welcomed by passengers. The freeze on fares on the Subway will also provide an extra boost to the hub of Glasgow's public transport system.
"From May, residents in Cumbernauld will benefit from a new Sunday rail service as well as a freeze on fares. Currently Cumbernauld is not served by rail on a Sunday and this action by SPT will make weekend travel much easier. 15 services in each direction between Glasgow and Cumbernauld will make sure that Cumbernauld is well connected.
"Two extra trains on the SPT rail network will help to ease congestion at the busiest times on the busiest routes. The extra trains will be used to lengthen existing services to ensure that more people can travel by train and that passengers experience a comfortable journey in brand-new state-of-the-art trains."
ends