ScotRail ditches temporary timetable as pre-May service levels resume

The return to service yesterday (Wednesday) brings an end to the temporary timetable that has been in place since May 23 and means almost 700 services per day will be added for customers.

The temporary arrangement had been introduced due to the impact of a significant number of drivers declining to make themselves available for overtime or rest day working, as they are entitled to do, during the pay dispute.

ScotRail has relied on drivers working overtime or on their rest days. In 2019, the operator committed to employing more drivers to phase out the reliance on this practice, however, the pandemic meant that driver training was significantly delayed. The company said that without Covid, it would have around 130 extra qualified drivers by now.

With progress made in pay negotiations, the union put the pay offer to members with a recommendation to accept. This led to members voting to accept, and ScotRail was notified of the results on July 11.

David Simpson, service delivery director, said: “We’re delighted to be able to reintroduce the timetable, adding almost 700 services each day, and delivering the service that our customers expect and deserve.

“It is a big step forward to reach such a positive resolution and continue in our efforts to provide the safest, greenest, and most reliable railway we can. We thank customers for their patience.”