THE Scottish Government has hailed the beginning of a “new era” for the Caledonian Sleeper service after officially came into public ownership on Sunday.
The service, which provides an overnight service connecting Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Fort William with London, was previously owned by the major outsourcing firm Serco.
Earlier this year, the Scottish Government announced it would nationalise the service after Serco requested the terms of its contract be changed.
Then-transport minister Jenny Gilruth said the nationalisation was not permanent and that the Government would look to sell it off in the future.
Transport Minister Fiona Hylsop said on Sunday: “Today sees the start of a new era for the Caledonian Sleeper as the services come into public ownership, in line with our Operator of Last Resort duty.
“The decision to mobilise Operator of Last resort arrangements, announced to Parliament earlier this year, followed an extensive review and consideration of the options available to provide Caledonian Sleeper services beyond June this year, when the current franchise expires.
“This review was conducted against the background of substantial uncertainty regarding future market conditions and the pace and impact of the UK Government’s rail reform process.
“It is fitting that we recognise the successes of the staff and management at the Caledonian Sleeper who have transformed this service, and who will remain as valued members of the team.
“I give my reassurances that there is a continued role for them to play in the future success of the service.
“In recent years, the Caledonian Sleeper has flourished, with increasing numbers of people using its unique journey opportunities.
“The service plays an important role in showcasing the best of Scotland and I look forward to building on that success in the years to come.”
