15 November 2011
Need for focus on improving everyday passenger experience
Transform Scotland [1] has released a briefing ahead of today's announcement from the Scottish Government of its 'Rail 2014 Consultation'.
The briefing is available at http://www.transformscotland.org.uk/GetFile.aspx?ItemId=496
Colin Howden, Director of Transform Scotland, said:
"While we welcome a discussion on how change in the rail industry can deliver cost savings, the focus must remain on improving the everyday passenger experience. There have been substantial improvements over the past decade and we need to see this continue.
"We believe that enhancements such as Wi-Fi, a national smartcard, and a high-quality passenger environment on the new electric trains will be critical in maintaining rail passenger growth. Moving people out of their cars and on to trains is the best way that the taxpayer can get value for money for the substantial funds invested in the rail network -- and we believe that some of these improvements can be made at low cost."
ENDS
Notes to Editors
[1] Transform Scotland is the national sustainable transport alliance, bringing together rail, bus and shipping operators, local authorities, national environment and conservation groups, businesses and local transport groups - see <http://www.transformscotland.org.uk/members.aspx> for details.
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