Media centre

Thursday 3 Jan 2008

ABERDEEN-DUNDEE RAIL REPLACEMENT WORKS MEAN A SMOOTHER RIDE FOR PASSENGERS

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

A multi-million pound rail replacement scheme between Aberdeen and Dundee will ensure a smoother journey for passengers following four weekends of engineering works in January. The essential works, near Arbroath, will take place each Saturday and Sunday between 5 January and 27 January. The renewal work will require bus replacement services to operate between Dundee and Aberdeen on four weekends: 5/6 Jan, 12/13 Jan, 19/20 Jan and 26/27 Jan.

David Simpson, Network Rail Route Director for Scotland, said: "These essential track replacement works are vital to the future success of the Scottish rail network.

"We are fully aware of the impact this work will have on passengers and we are working with our partners to ensure that passengers are kept informed about the timetable changes and bus replacement services. Our focus is to ensure that the work is completed as quickly and effectively as possible. We have confined the work to weekends to reduce the impact on passengers.”

Steve Montgomery, First ScotRail's Operations and Safety Director, said the work was vital to ensure the continued reliability of North-East rail services.

He said: "Replacement buses will be in operation between Dundee and Aberdeen in both directions to transport customers. We have done everything possible to minimise the inconvenience and would advise anyone looking to travel on these days to allow extra time as journeys will take longer than normal." Network Rail is working closely with First ScotRail and other operators to minimise disruption for passengers. Details of revised services are available from National Rail Enquiries at www.nationalrail.co.uk or phone 08457 48 49 50.