ScotRail Restores Rail-Ferry Link- Scrabster
3rd August 2011
ScotRail today confirmed it is to provide a taxi-on-request service for customers holding a 'through ticket' between the rail network and Orkney, to transport customers between Thurso railway station and Scrabster pier.
It is hoped to launch the service in early September.
The train operator has stepped in to restore integrated travel opportunities, following a decision by Stagecoach to reduce its bus service.
Following discussions with local taxi companies, Ormlie Taxis will act as the point of contact for all taxi services in the area, taking bookings and distributing revenue.
Des Bradley, transport integration manager at ScotRail, stressed that customers with through rail tickets to or from Orkney will need to phone ahead to book a taxi.
He said, "Mobile reception in the area is patchy so our advice is to phone as early as possible - or even the day before. Customers without a mobile can ask train or Stromness terminal staff to assist. Passengers will need to show a valid through ticket to the taxi driver and may have to share with other passengers.
Mr Bradley added, "Integrated public transport is important to customers - and to us. We are pleased we have been able to find a solution to address the concerns of local people about the loss of the link."
John Green, Chair of the Caithness Transport Forum, has welcomed the move. He said, "We are delighted to hear that the link from Thurso Rail Station to Scrabster Ferry Terminal is to be reinstated. The Forum aims to improve the connectivity to from and within the county and ScotRail has also evidenced its belief in this regard, by using a local taxi service to ensure that integrated travel to and from Orkney remains available to
passengers".
Due to limited mobile phone reception, ScotRail's on-train staff may be able to assist as far north as Helmsdale for northbound journeys. Similarly, staff at Stromness ferry terminal can assist southbound travellers - but not during the ferry journey itself.