Local MSP Secures Commitment From ScotRail to Upgrade Ticketing Software at Inverness Station

Ariane Burgess, Scottish Green MSP for the Highlands and Islands Region, has successfully advocated on behalf of rail commuters at Inverness Station, securing a commitment from ScotRail to upgrade the ticketing software.

This upgrade will ensure that through travellers changing platforms can do so seamlessly, addressing a long-standing issue that has caused frustration among passengers and station staff. 

In her correspondence with ScotRail, Ms Burgess highlighted the problems faced by commuters due to the current ticketing system.

Specifically, tickets bought via the app and used at Inverness ticket gates do not allow customers to “break” their journey.

This means that when passengers go through the ticket gates at platforms one and two, the gates register the ticket as used, causing inconvenience for those needing to change platforms. 

Ms Burgess has also highlighted issues with the route guiding software, which has resulted in some services that go via Inverness not showing as options when people plan their journeys via the app.

This has further complicated travel plans for many commuters. 

In response to Ms Burgess’s advocacy, ScotRail has confirmed that Cubic, the provider of the ticket gates, will implement a software update in the coming months.

This update will allow passengers to use their tickets to exit at platform one and enter the other one without station staff having to let them through. 

Ariane Burgess MSP expressed her satisfaction with the commitment from ScotRail, stating:

“I am pleased that ScotRail has acknowledged the issues faced by rail commuters at Inverness Station and has committed to upgrading the ticketing software.

“This will significantly improve the travel experience for all rail users who need to change platforms at Inverness.

“I look forward to seeing these changes implemented and a more streamlined travel experience for everyone.” 

Ms Burgess’s efforts underscore her dedication to improving public transport infrastructure and ensuring a better travel experience for her constituents.

The upcoming software update is expected to alleviate the frustrations of many rail users and enhance the overall efficiency of Inverness Station.