Scotland will permanently scrap peak rail fares from 1 September, First Minister John Swinney has announced, in a move hailed as a major win for commuters, climate campaigners and the wider economy.
The decision follows a year-long trial by ScotRail, which initially removed peak-time ticket pricing in October 2023. Although the pilot ended in September 2024 after falling short of its targets, the Scottish Government has chosen to press ahead with making the change permanent.
Peak fares currently apply to train journeys starting before 09:15 on weekdays and certain services between 16:42 and 18:30. The abolition of these time-based surcharges will make ticket prices more affordable and uniform throughout the day.
Announcing the change as part of his Programme for Government, the First Minister told MSPs:
“Last year, in the face of severe budget pressures, we took the difficult decision to end the peak fares pilot on our railways.
But now, given the work we have done to get Scotland’s finances in a stronger position, and hearing also the calls from commuters, from climate activists and from the business community, I can confirm that, from 1 September this year, peak rail fares in Scotland will be scrapped for good.
A decision that will put more money in people’s pockets and mean less CO₂ is pumped into our skies.”
The policy is part of a broader effort to support household budgets while helping Scotland shift to greener transport options.
“This Programme for Government also shows decisive action to protect Scotland’s economy and maximise our economic potential in the face of global challenges,” said Mr Swinney. “It is a programme for a better Scotland, for a stronger NHS and a more resilient and wealthier Scotland. It is a Programme for Government that gets our nation on track for success.”
While the pilot scheme did not reach the hoped-for 10% rise in rail passengers needed to break even—managing an increase of only 6.8%—the permanent removal of peak fares signals a long-term investment in shifting travel behaviour, easing commuter costs, and reducing emissions.
Industry observers expect the change to improve rail accessibility for lower-income workers and encourage modal shift from car to rail, particularly for city-based commuters.
