People travelling home for Christmas are being urged to plan ahead as Scotland’s transport network prepares for one of the busiest periods of the year, with winter crews, rail operators and police working together to keep journeys moving safely.
Preparations are already well underway across the country, with operating companies activating winter treatment plans, salt barns fully stocked and more than 240 gritters on standby at 40 depots to respond quickly if conditions deteriorate.
The trunk road network will be monitored around the clock from Transport Scotland’s National Traffic Control Centre in South Queensferry, working closely with Police Scotland and the Met Office to manage traffic flow and respond to incidents as they arise.
While no severe weather warnings are currently in place, motorists are being advised to allow extra time for journeys this week, as roads and public transport services are expected to be significantly busier in the run-up to Christmas.
Winter resilience measures are already in place across the strategic road network, including dedicated snow plans for the M8, M74, M77, M80 and the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, alongside enhanced ice detection and mitigation on the Queensferry Crossing.
Scotland currently has around 497,000 tonnes of salt in stock, which is more than was used during the entirety of last winter, providing reassurance that the network is well prepared should conditions turn colder.
Rail passengers are also being encouraged to check journeys in advance, with ScotRail adding extra services and increasing capacity on key routes to support Christmas shopping, festive events and late-night travel.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop thanked frontline staff for their efforts during what can be a demanding period.
“For many people the next few days are about celebrating and spending time with loved ones, but we know our frontline staff will be out keeping the network moving, often in freezing temperatures and remote locations.
“It’s a fitting time to express our gratitude for everything they do, often under the radar, and it is reassuring to know teams are ready should the weather take a turn over the coming weeks.”
Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren, Head of Road Policing at Police Scotland, said the festive period brings a sharp rise in traffic levels and urged drivers to take extra care.
“Our roads will be particularly busy as people travel to see family and friends, so planning journeys in advance and driving to the conditions is essential,” he said.
He also reminded drivers to check vehicles before setting off, including fuel levels, tyre condition and pressures, windscreen washer fluid and lights, to reduce the risk of breakdowns or accidents.
ScotRail Service Delivery Director Mark Ilderton said additional late-night services and increased seating were designed to help people travel more safely and sustainably over the festive period.
He added that passengers should check times carefully, as last trains on Christmas Eve and Hogmanay will depart earlier than usual, while Boxing Day will see expanded services including routes to and from Aberdeen.
Douglas Cairns from Transport Scotland said real-time travel information would be available throughout the period to help people make informed decisions.
“With tens of thousands of people expected to travel over the coming days, planning ahead will help ensure everyone reaches their destination safely and in good time,” he said.
The Traffic Scotland winter hub and advice on driving in severe weather is available here: Winter driving tips | Traffic Scotland
