MSP calls for faster far north line train times
Highland MSP and far north rail line campaigner, Rhoda Grant, is putting pressure on the Scottish Government Transport Minister, calling for a reduction in travel time between Inverness and Wick/Thurso.
Earlier this week Mark Norton, convener of the North Rail Line Action Group, wrote to Highland MSPs concerned about receiving conflicting reports about what exactly is planned for implementing journey time reductions on the Inverness - Thurso/ Wick railway line.
Journey time from Wick to Inverness increased to almost 4 hours 30 minutes in December last year and Office of Rail Regulation figures show a fall in passenger numbers during 2012/13 and 2013/14.
Mrs Grant has written to the Scottish Government asking for the Transport Minister to listen to concerns of the North Rail Line Action Group, Caithness and Sutherland communities and as well as voices from business groups and work towards a reduction in journey time on the line as a priority.
She says: “The far north line needs support and I am pushing Transport Scotland, Abellio Scotrail and Network Rail to deliver for the Highlands. The journey time on the far north line is steadily increasing, whilst we are seeing passenger numbers decreasing.
“The far north line must see a reduced journey time in the near future to reverse its fortunes and to show real commitment to the Highlands from the SNP Scottish Government, Abellio Scotrail and Network Rail.
