On 18th November, Transform members met for the second time in our three-part autumn series of Network Briefings. The discussion focused on the future of Scotland’s rail network, featuring presentations from ScotRail, Rail Freight Group and Women In Rail. Paul Tetlaw, Rail Policy Advisor for Transform chaired the session.
Policy context
Transform’s director, Colin Howden, highlighted the Scottish Government’s revised transport commitments, emphasising a shift towards electric vehicles and a scaling-back in its traffic reduction target, which was met with disappointment. He highlighted upcoming events including the Scottish Budget on 13 January, the Scottish Parliament elections on 7 May, and the UK Budget on 26 November.
Colin discussed the ongoing debate about Edinburgh trams, and noted Transform’s support for a large vehicle levy to address road safety and emissions concerns.
Industry challenges and priorities
Claire Dickie, Commercial Director at ScotRail, provided an update on current operations and recent initiatives such as the abolition of peak fares.
She touched on challenges such as changing travel patterns post-COVID and the need to adapt to evolving passenger needs.
Phil Smart, Assistant Policy Manager at Rail Freight Group, shared his organisation’s perspective on the problems the rail industry is facing in Scotland.
He emphasised the environmental benefits of rail freight, such as reduced CO2 emissions, and highlighted the need for increased electrification, fair competition with road freight, and government support.
Johannah Randall, Strategic Operations Advisor at Women In Rail, outlined the organisation’s four pillars: attracting women to rail careers, creating inclusive cultures, providing mentoring and development, and amplifying achievements.
She argued more must be done to inspire the next generation and noted recent efforts including a potential book aimed at schoolchildren showcasing rail careers.
Member discussion
Delegates raised topics including Scottish transport policies, rail freight, and gender equity in the rail industry. Questions were also raised about the complexity of rail ticketing in Scotland and potential for aligning rail and bus fare systems.
Looking ahead
The final Transform Network Briefing of 2025 will take place on 9 December. We’ll be discussing the bus sector with Debbie McCreath, Group Marketing Director at Alexander Dennis, as chair.
Join us for presentations and Q&A on bus policy from Pamela Johnstone, Head of Customer Experience at Citylink and Stacey O’Flaherty, Project Manager for lovemybus youth programme.
