Recent statistics by ScotRail reveal that the Borders Rail has once again failed to meet performance targets between 1st April and 28th April.
The much loved train line has struggled with performance. Recent statistics show that 87.8% (ppm) of trains arrived to Tweedbank arrived on time. This is the worst performance of the year to date.
Local MSP Rachael Hamilton is concerned that a poor performance might deter day visitors from making the journey from Edinburgh to the Scottish Borders. Statistics from the Scottish Tourism Economic Assessment Monitor (STEAM) found that since the line reopened for the first time in 10 years every tourism category measured had improved.
The overall Moving Average Target was 91.7% (ppm) this was missed across Scotland that recorded an average performance of 89.7% (ppm).
PPM is the percentage of ScotRail services that arrive or terminate at this location within 5 minutes of their booked arrival time.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said: ‘The Borders Rail is a cherished and much loved throughout the Borders. It has however been plagued by performance issues.
‘The SNP Government must get to the bottom of why performance remains to be an issue on the Borders line and help resolve the issues.
‘Summer is here and it is now more important than ever that those that want to come to the Scottish Borders have a reliable train service to do so. A more reliable service means more visitors and that means a stronger Borders economy.’