On April 1, operations at First ScotRail will transfer to a new franchise run by Abellio, with sleeper services to be operated by the newly created Caledonian Sleeper franchise, run by Serco.
Commenting, FirstGroup Chief Executive Tim O’Toole said:
“We are immensely proud to have operated Scotland’s railways for the past 11 years, and to have delivered unmatched levels of service and quality. Since 2004, First ScotRail has invested more than £82 million in Scotland’s railways, delivering increased frequencies, upgrades to trains and stations and increasing the number of passengers by 34 percent. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our passengers for their support and custom.
“We will be handing over Scotland’s railways in a very strong position. Passenger numbers are at an all-time high, with more than 86 million passenger journeys being made in the last year, and satisfaction is at record levels of over 90 percent in the latest National Rail Passenger Survey - eight points higher than the national UK average, and six points higher than when we took over the franchise. Punctuality has also risen from 84 percent in 2004 to a record high of 95 percent today. Our achievements have been recognised by the industry as we have been awarded the title of Rail Operator of the Year three times in the last six years.
“Above all, I am most proud of the team, led by Steve Montgomery, and all of our employees at First ScotRail for achieving these goals. I would like to thank them for their commitment and dedication in delivering the highest standards of service for passengers.
“We are working hard with the new franchisees to ensure a smooth transition for everyone as they prepare to take on the responsibility of running Scotland’s railways. We wish employees, partners and passengers of the new franchise every success for the future.”
