Moray MSP Richard Lochhead seeks views of local rail users over ScotRail plans

MORAY MSP Richard Lochhead has raised concerns over the proposed plans to cut ticket office opening hours in the local area.

This comes after ScotRail's announcement this week of plans to significantly reduce ticket office opening hours in response to changing customer habits following the Covid-19 pandemic.

The proposal would see reduced opening hours in 120 stations around Scotland, including the Elgin, Keith and Forres stations.

Mr Lochhead is interested in hearing the views of railway staff and users in Moray so he can ensure that any local concerns are considered by ScotRail before final decisions are taken.

Mr Lochhead said: “Whilst there’s no doubt that the way customers purchase rail tickets has changed in recent years, I do think it’s important that ScotRail recognise how important it is to have stations staffed throughout the day. I know that a lot of folk rely on the help and support of staff at our local train stations and they will likely be concerned that opening hours could be reduced. These changes will also have implications for local staff and they will no doubt be anxious about what any changes may mean for them."

ScotRail have claimed that although the proposed stations will have shorter opening hours, no staff jobs are at risk and the changes would allow them to introduce more flexible family friendly working hours and provide a larger availability of part time shifts. The company have also promised that no passenger disruption will be caused by the changes as passengers with specific mobility needs will continue to be supported and that this will not affect the number or frequency of rail services that call at any of the proposed stations.

The review aims to reflect the changing needs of ScotRail's customers, with many Scots continuing to work from home and preferring to use digital ticket options instead of ticket offices.

Mr Lochhead said: “I think we all recognise the need to move with the times but I will be urging ScotRail not to base all of their decisions on changes in demand or behaviour over the course of the pandemic. I’m keen to hear the views of rail users and staff in Moray on these proposed changes and I’ll ensure that any concerns are raised with ScotRail for consideration as part of their review. I’d encourage rail users to look at the proposed changes for Moray’s train station and to share their views with me in the coming days and weeks.”

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