Perthshire North MSP, Mr John Swinney, has today raised concerns over the frequency of rail services stopping at Blair Atholl station.

Presently, there are only four daily trains on the southbound service – at 7.12, 14.21, 20.24 and 22.00 respectively. By contrast, the northbound service has nine daily trains spread across the day.

As a result of the significant gaps between southbound trains, constituents staying in the Blair Atholl region that are not in possession of a car face significant difficulties travelling into Perth – a journey that they will often need to make for medical reasons, visiting family members or for shopping.

Mr Swinney has today written directly to Abellio Scotrail to raise this matter with them, and to ask if consideration can be given to increasing the number of trains on the southbound service. 

Commenting, Mr Swinney said:

“It is vital that those living in rural areas have access to quality, reliable public transport.

“With gaps of over seven hours between trains, it is clear that the infrequency of the current southbound service is making it more difficult for Blair Atholl residents to travel to Perth. This difficulty may be felt particularly acutely if a local resident is required to travel for a medical appointment and does not have a car.

“After being contacted by constituents regarding this issue, I have now raised their concerns directly with Abellio Scotrail. I am hopeful that they will consider an expansion of services, and I am keen to engage further with management on this matter going forward.”