ScotRail is issuing travel advice to customers for Sunday, 28 July as the train operator aims to provide certainty to customers.
With ScotRail currently operating a temporary timetable due to fewer drivers being available for rest day working (as is their contractual right) during a pay dispute with drivers’ union ASLEF, this Sunday will see a number of additional alterations to train services which may impact on journeys.
Historically, Sundays do not form part of the working week for train drivers and therefore, rest day working, and overtime are used to operate the timetable. This is the case across many parts of the British rail industry.
Engineering works carried out by Network Rail are also generally scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays, and often require changes to be made to ScotRail services. This Sunday, due to essential engineering works, buses will replace trains between Glasgow Queen Street and Anniesland / Linlithgow / Alloa / Crianlarich and also between Mount Florida and Neilston.
These two factors mean changes to ScotRail’s temporary timetable on Sunday are necessary.
On Sunday, 28 July, customers are advised that there will be additional cancellations on top of the temporary timetable. Replacement buses will be in place for some services and there will be larger gaps between services on others. ScotRail is strongly advising customers to check their journey the day before travelling by using the ScotRail app.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, said:
“With a temporary timetable currently in operation, and given the particular impact on Sundays, it is important we advise our customers of what to expect, and to plan ahead for their journey.
“Customers should allow extra time for travel and check their journey on our mobile app the day before travel.
“We’re sorry for the inconvenience this may cause to customers who have their journey impacted by service alterations. We know how frustrating this can be and thank them for their patience.
“We want to resolve the pay dispute with the trade unions and remain fully committed to further discussions.”