21.08.14
ScotRail signs rail concordat with East Lothian Council
First ScotRail has signed a rail concordat with East Lothian Council, promising better off-peak services and other improvements.
Objectives of the concordat include providing increased access to, and use of, rail services – particularly during off-peak periods, and developing rail services to best meet the needs of the people of East Lothian, local businesses and visitors to the area.
This is in line with enhancing the contribution of rail services to the objectives of the East Lothian Local Transport Strategy, the wider East Lothian community plan, and the East Lothian economic development strategy.
In particular, the concordat agreement between First ScotRail and East Lothian Council acknowledges that passenger rail services:
- Have an important role to play in the East Lothian economy by getting people to work, connecting businesses and creating jobs.
- Support the social and cultural life of East Lothian, connecting communities and opening up leisure opportunities.
- Positively contribute to the environment and carbon reduction.
A recent study by the Fraser of Allander Institute revealed ScotRail’s contribution to the tourist industry in Edinburgh and Lothians alone directly enabled 11,520 jobs and £372.5m worth of GDP.
Sean Duffy, ScotRail’s commercial director, said: “Our services are crucial in East Lothian, by getting people to work, connecting families and communities, and contributing to carbon reduction.
“But more can be done, and working in partnership with East Lothian Council on initiatives will ensure we can best meet the needs of East Lothian residents and the economy.”
ScotRail added that it has a similar agreement in principle with Fife Council and that the train operator looks forward to having more of these in the future.
Michael Veitch, East Lothian Council Transport spokesperson, said: “Rail services are extremely important to the people of East Lothian and I am delighted that we are entering into this agreement with ScotRail.
“I trust that the increased cooperation it brings, alongside partnerships like the brand new East Lothian Community Rail Partnership, will help further enhance the benefits of commuters, visitors and other users.”
(Image: Sean Duffy, ScotRail commercial director, and East Lothian Councillor Michael Veitch)
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]