Posted 11th August 2021 | No Comments

ScotRail ends physical distancing rule

KEEPING one metre apart from other train passengers is no longer required on ScotRail.

The change is part of the general abolition of 'physical distancing' in Scotland. But face coverings will still be needed in some circumstances.

ScotRail said its extra cleaning routines would continue on trains and stations.

The operator, which will be nationalised in March, is running almost 2,000 trains a day, but is still recovering from a fall in passenger numbers of more than 90 per cent during the Covic pandemic. Over the next few months, ScotRail said it would be 'providing a timetable that supports the future needs of passengers rather than simply reverting to a pre-Covid schedule that reflects historic travel patterns'.

Operations director David Simpson said: 'The removal of the legal requirement for physical distancing is good news for Scotland’s Railway and a significant step towards recovery. While there will no longer be a need to physically distance on trains, customers will still need to wear a face covering in stations and on trains and be respectful of their fellow passengers. We’re asking customers to do the right thing and wear one, to protect everyone.

'We’re continuing to provide a safe and reliable service. Customers should continue to take personal responsibility for how they travel with us and if they think a train is too busy then they should wait for the next service.'