- ScotRail will permanently abolish peak fares across its network from September 1, meaning passengers will pay the same fare regardless of travel time.
- This change will significantly reduce costs for commuters, with the Edinburgh to Glasgow 'anytime' day return fare dropping by almost half, from £32.60 to £16.80.
- The decision follows a year-long pilot scheme, subsidised by the Scottish government, which found only a limited increase in passenger numbers and did not achieve its aim of a significant shift from car to rail.
- Despite the pilot's findings that it primarily benefited existing passengers and higher-income individuals, the Scottish government hopes the permanent removal will encourage greater use of rail travel.
- The move has drawn criticism for its economic rationale, especially given government budget pressures, and the ending of some 'super off-peak' tickets may lead to fare increases on other routes.
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