Pitlochry – Perth 23% Rail Fare Reductions

“This is a step in the right direction and I am glad that First Scotrail have listened to the concerns of local people raised by Eleanor Howie and myself.

“The revised cost is, however, still a very big increase on what was paid previously and I think First Scotrail must be very careful not to price rail travel out of the market for local residents."

Cllr Howie added: “I welcome First Scotrail’s decision of the booking time for the Value Advance fare of £7.50 up to 6pm the night before travel. This is an improvement on what has recently been introduced.

“Rail travel is vital for residents in rural areas such as that which I represent, and it is essential that fares are kept at a reasonable level. Like John Swinney, I want First Scotrail to ensure that fare increases do not lead to passengers being unable to travel by rail.”

Letter from Peter Williams, Commercial Director First Scotrail to John Swinney MSP:

Dear John,

Following our meeting last month I promised to let you know the changes we would be making to the Saver fare on the Perth-Pitlochry flow.

By way of background, in June 2006 First ScotRail began the process of restructuring long distance fares on the network and this process continues from 10th September. As part of the process, as you are aware, we have removed some of the anomalous fares which exist within the fares structure. At our meeting of the 28th July, you raised concerns about the removal of the Perth-Pitlochry Cheap Day Return fare. This fare was introduced some years ago and was in itself an anomaly; priced at 40% below the Single fare. On that basis, we will not be reinstating that product on that flow. However, from 10th September the Saver fare on that flow will be priced at £9.90 (a reduction of £3.00; down 23%). Additionally the Standard Open Return fare will be held at £12.90.

I would also remind you of the availability of Value Advance (subject to capacity) on this flow which can be booked up to 18.00 the day before travel. The use of advance purchase products increases our ability to offer the cheapest tickets where spare capacity exists and, coupled with time of day restrictions on walk up products, encourages flexible passengers to move to less busy trains.

The overall aim of the strategy is to simplify the long distance fares structure and provide the tools to manage capacity more responsively. The rail industry is attracting more and more passengers each year and we have a responsibility to manage that demand. While we continue to work with industry partners on topics such as rolling stock and platform lengthening, we also have a duty to provide a fares structure where fares levels are based on demand profiles.

Thank you for raising your concerns with me.

Regards,

Peter Williams