Lanarkshire MSP welcomes Scottish Government's decision to abolish peak-time rail fares
A Lanarkshire MSP has welcomed the Scottish Government's decision to abolish peak-time rail fares across Scotland.
The move, which will take effect from September, is expected to bring significant benefits to commuters in Lanarkshire and across the country.
The decision has been made with the hope of encouraging more people to choose sustainable travel options, helping to support Scotland's wider environmental goals.
The initiative follows the success of a national pilot programme which saw peak fares temporarily removed on ScotRail services. The trial was met with strong public support and demonstrated the positive impact such a policy could have—both in terms of affordability and accessibility.
Motherwell and Wishaw MSP Clare Adamson said: 'I am absolutely delighted that the Scottish Government is making the removal of peak-time ScotRail fares permanent.
'This is a truly transformational step toward a fairer, greener, and more affordable public transport system.
"It's a move that will be warmly welcomed by many of my constituents across Motherwell and Wishaw who rely on the train to get to work, education, and essential services.
'The high cost of travelling during peak hours has placed an unfair burden on people already grappling with the cost-of-living crisis. This change offers real, tangible relief for households and makes sustainable travel a more viable option for many.
'Encouraging more people to use our rail network is a win for commuters, a win for the economy, and a win for the environment. Scrapping peak fares removes a long-standing barrier to access, and I'm proud to support this step forward in making Scotland's public services fairer and more inclusive.
'I've heard directly from constituents who benefited from the pilot scheme, many of whom spoke of how it improved their daily lives. This decision reflects a government listening to the public and acting in their best interest with meaningful, progressive change.'
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