ScotRail is set to hugely improve its services on a busy Glasgow route.
The travel operator will enhance services on the West Highland Line with longer trains.
From Tuesday, March 11, the firm will operate seven-carriage trains between Glasgow and Crianlairch, and five-carriage trains between Crianlairch and Fort William.
The improvements have been made possible due to the completion of platform extension works by Network Rail, which will allow the train operator to make better use of its Highland Explorer carriages.
The use of active travel carriages had previously been restricted on services due to platform length limitations.
The Highland Explorer carriages will be used for the following services:
- 12.12pm Glasgow to Fort William
- 5.38pm from Fort William to Glasgow (starting in Mallaig).
ScotRail will also begin its summer service strengthening on March 11, earlier than in previous years.
Traditionally starting from the last weekend in March, this year summer strengthening will start earlier to accommodate increased demand.
ScotRail is adding additional carriages to the following trains:
- 8.15am Fort William to Mallaig.
- 8.22am Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig.
- 10.10am Mallaig and Fort William to Glasgow.
- 12.22pm Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig.
- 4.05pm Mallaig and Fort William to Glasgow.
- 18.15pm Mallaig to Fort William.
The enhancements aim to provide more space for bicycles and luggage and more seats for customers and active travellers, ensuring a more efficient and comfortable journey along the scenic West Highland Line.
Scott Prentice, ScotRail strategy and planning director, said: “ScotRail is committed to enhancing connectivity and making rail travel more convenient, and accessible, for all.
"The introduction of longer trains on the West Highland Line is great news for our customers.
"These improvements will provide additional space and comfort, particularly for those travelling with bikes and outdoor equipment.”
Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, said: “The West Highland Line provides an important service for customers wanting to enjoy some of the best of Scotland’s scenic outdoors.
"These longer trains mean more space, seating capacity, and comfort for everyone.
“The Scottish Government is committed to making Scotland’s railway more attractive for all its users, particularly as part of the tourism mix.”
Ross Moran, Network Rail Scotland route director, said: “With £1.7m in funding from the Scottish Government, we extended eight station platforms along the West Highland Line to allow longer trains to be introduced.
“We know passengers value this iconic route, especially for accessing Scotland’s great outdoors, and their experience will now be significantly enhanced.”
