Ticket price trial in Scotland to cut out ‘peaks’ 

The new ticket prices are part of a Scottish government plan to accelerate a modal shift from cars to rail as part of its net zero efforts. 

Patrick Rhys Atack September 14 2023

ScotRail, the government-owned rail operator in Scotland, has announced a six-month trial of a new fare structure. The most expensive ‘peak fares’ will be cut, as will some of the current cheapest ‘super off-peak peak’ in order to simplify the fare structure across the network.

The six-month trial will run from October 2 to March 31, 2024.

Although the trial will mean many commuters pay less for their daily journeys, some off-peak travellers will end up paying more during the period.

Instead of peak, off-peak and super off-peak tickets, there will now be a single “all-day ticket”. 

For some journeys, that all-day price is the old off-peak ticket price, but for other routes, both the highest and lowest prices will be scrapped, with a new median rate introduced. That means some passengers will pay more than usual during the trial.

As many commuters buy season tickets for set periods at a set price, they will be able to apply for partial refunds.

The new ticket prices are part of a Scottish government plan to accelerate a modal shift from cars to rail as part of its net zero efforts.

Scotland’s Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop explained: "This peak fare removal pilot is aimed at achieving [government net zero targets] by making ticketing simpler with off-peak fares valid all day. This is an exciting and unique opportunity to encourage more people to choose a safe, reliable and greener form of public transport."

ScotRail’s managing director Alex Hynes added: "We know that cost and simplicity is a critical factor for people when they choose how to travel and we are looking forward to delivering this fantastic fare reduction for our customers."

Train ticket pricing and sales are a hot topic in the UK currently. The UK government in London is facing criticism for a plan to allow train operating companies (TOCs) to close many ticket offices around the country.

Uncover your next opportunity with expert reports

Steer your business strategy with key data and insights from our latest market research reports and company profiles. Not ready to buy? Start small by downloading a sample report first.

Newsletters by sectors

close

Sign up to the newsletter: In Brief

Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Thank you for subscribing

View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network.

close