Just the Ticket

Communities across East Lothian are set to benefit from a unique agreement between First ScotRail and East Lothian Council.Train operator ScotRail today (20 August) signed a concordat with East Lothian Council to work together to maintain and enhance rail services in the region.

Train operator ScotRail today (20 August) signed the agreement with East Lothian Council to work together to maintain and enhance rail services in the region. The concordat commits ScotRail and the local authority to a close working relationship aimed at further boosting the social, economic and environmental benefits of railways.

The agreement will encourage economic growth, getting people to work, connecting communities and businesses, and opening up leisure opportunities. Working on issues such as increasing services during off-peak travel times, the concordat will also highlight the fundamental role local authorities have to play in helping achieve ScotRail’s aims for the rail network.

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.”

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 £372.5 million worth of GDP.

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.”

ScotRail said 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.