Ministerial Statement on latest Scottish Transport Statistics

Derek Mackay MInister for Transport and Islands said:

“The annual Scottish Transport statistics provide an encouraging insight into areas in which we are performing well, together with indications where more work will be beneficial in continuing to deliver our transport vision.

“Once again we have seen increases in rail use and cycling, a clear sign our continued investment in these areas is paying dividends. The Scottish Government is currently delivering the most extensive investment programme in our railways ever, worth £5 billion up to 2019.

“This is ensuring more people than ever are able to make use of Scotland’s railways. By continuing to offer customers reliable and safe services, a range of fare options and real value for money, more than 92 million passenger journeys were made on ScotRail services last year – an increase of 6 million.”

“While there has been a small decline in bus use, we have remained committed to supporting bus services through the £240 million made available through the Bus Service Operators Grant and Concessionary Bus Travel. We are also pushing forward with the introduction of Smart ticketing which will be rolled out across more transport services going forward.

“One of the most encouraging signs is the fact almost three quarters of all journeys to school are made by active or public transport means. This provides a real opportunity to encourage the next generation to leave the car behind, while providing environmental and health benefits now.

“While the increase in car registrations reflects the on-going economic recovery in Scotland, the Scottish Government remains focused on reducing emissions and congestion by encouraging a greater number of journeys by public and active travel. We are investing more than £1 billion per annum to get people out of their cars and remain committed to our shared vision of 10% of everyday journeys being made by bike by 2020.

“We remain resolute that we have used our devolved powers wisely, with a robust infrastructure programme that includes multi-billion investment in key projects such as the Edinburgh Glasgow Improvement Programme, Queensferry Crossing and the A9 and A96 Dualling Programmes. These once in a generation schemes are providing jobs and much needed support for the construction industry now while securing Scotland’s long-term transport future.”