ScotRail are to reduce physical distancing on trains from two metres to one metre on Monday. 

The operator said that the new changes come in accordance with the Scottish Government's updated health guidance from July 2. 

The capacity on trains will however remain significantly reduced to help support physical distancing.

Hand sanitiser stations will still be provided at the busiest train stations in the country and face masks remain madatory on trains and at stations. 

People are still urged to consider alternative travel options where possible, including walking and cycling, to free up space for those who have no choice but to travel by train.

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For those who do travel on ScotRail services, the operator is asking customers to continue to follow its five rules for safer travel and take personal responsibility:

  • Do not travel if you feel unwell or have a temperature.
  • Travel away from the main commuting times (0700 – 0900 and 1600 – 1830) wherever possible, as trains will be busiest around then. The earliest and latest trains serve key workers, like NHS and care home staff.
  • If you think it’s not safe to board a train, don’t do it and wait for another service.
  • Wear a face mask or covering and, where possible, maintain physical distancing.
  • Be patient. You might not be able to board your first choice of train, as physical distancing means most seats need to be left empty.

David Simpson, ScotRail Operations Director, said: “We’ve worked closely with staff, trade union colleagues, and the government to satisfy ourselves that we have sufficient safety measures in place to move to a minimum of one metre physical distancing on trains and at stations.

“The provision of face masks and hand sanitisers at our busiest stations are just some of the measures we introduced in recent weeks to keep staff and customers safe.

“But we need everybody to continue taking personal responsibility for their travel choices, because physical distancing can’t be guaranteed. Customers who do travel with ScotRail should follow our five rules for safer travel, including the wearing of a face covering on trains and at stations.