Highland MSP presses case for return of ScotRail late night train service to Tain from Inverness

Kate Forbes MSP has said she is hopeful a midnight service offering a later train home from the Highland capital on a Friday and Saturday for those in Conon Bridge, Dingwall and other parts of Ross-shire can be reinstated.

Prior to the pandemic the 23.33 ScotRail service from Inverness to Tain provided a popular and significantly cheaper way for revellers getting home from the city centre without having to shell out on a taxi.

Unfortunately this particular service was withdrawn from the north timetable during Covid, meaning the last train out of Inverness heading north departs just before 9.30pm.

The Ross-shire-based MSP, who was approached by several constituents who are keen to see the 23.33 reinstated on a Friday and Saturday night, has raised it with ScotRail representatives on multiple occasions.

Though there are no immediate plans to reinstate the service, ScotRail are keeping it under review.

Kate Forbes MSP said: “I’ve had a number of constituents approach me who would like to see the later service return. The night-time economy in Inverness is growing, and I think the train timetable should adapt accordingly too.

“Though I am disappointed there is nothing happening in the immediate future, I am hopeful that the situation will improve – particularly as ScotRail train up more drivers.

“I will keep up the pressure for my constituents and am pleased Scotrail are keeping the situation under review.”

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