15 per cent reduction in train services to Inverurie - but still no signs of a new timetable
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Confirmed changes to rail services in the north-east which are expected to come into effect in December will see a reduction in rail links from Inverurie to Aberdeen, but with just weeks until the plans come into force, there are still no signs of the actual timetables.
In September, Scotrail representatives made a presentation to the board of Nestrans outlining changes which will see local services from Aberdeen to Inverurie reduced along with reductions from Portlethen, Stonehaven, Laurencekirk in order to increase Aberdeen to Glasgow links.
The changes, which come into force in December, will see trains from Aberdeen to Inverurie cut down from 74 to 63, a 15 per cent reduction.
In parliament this week North East MSP Liam Kerr said axing rail services to and from Aberdeen will harm businesses across the region.
Mr Kerr, whose petition calling for the reopening of Newtonhill and Cove railway stations has gathered more than 1500 signatures, asked transport minister Fiona Hyslop: “A new ScotRail timetable under which local train services in the north-east will be slashed, what impact does the minister predict these cuts will have on the accessibility of places like Aberdeen, Inverurie and Stonehaven, the businesses and economy there, and the model shift she speaks of?”
Mr Kerr later said: “While we absolutely do need more trains to Glasgow and Edinburgh, scrapping local rail services to and from north-east towns to pay for these isn’t the answer.
“As more people look to use alternative modes of transport, many use the train to get to work, go shopping or go to pubs and restaurants in these places which is why the SNP Government should be looking to expand services, not draw them back.
“It’s clear from the transport minister’s response that she has little time or care for the people of the north-east.
“These drastic plans have the potential to kill our region’s High Streets and could not be more badly timed, particularly for struggling businesses who desperately need a busy Christmas.”
