Scotland’s train services are to be run by a public sector body, the Scottish government has announced.
Dutch firm Abellio will stop running the ScotRail franchise in March next year.
After this an arms-length Scottish government company will take over the running of services.
Abellio has been running the franchise since 2015 but had its contract ended early amid criticism over cancellations and performance levels.
Speaking today transport secretary Michael Mason said: “
“Following a detailed assessment process and given the uncertainty caused by Covid 19, alongside the continuing delays to the UK Government white paper on rail reform, I have decided that it would not be appropriate to award a franchise agreement to any party at this time, either through a competition or a direct award.
“That is why I have confirmed that, from the expiry of the current franchise, ScotRail services will be provided in public hands through a company wholly owned and controlled by the Scottish Government. This is in line with our operator of last resort duty.”
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