Network Rail and ScotRail have signed a strengthened Alliance Agreement, committing to greater integration and collaboration to deliver a safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly railway.

The new agreement, supported by the Scottish Government, aims to optimise outcomes for Scotland's economy, society, and railway users. It updates the previous agreement signed by Abellio ScotRail and Network Rail in 2015.

Under the High-Level Output Specification (HLOS), which outlines the Scottish Government's investment priorities, several projects are underway that require closer cooperation between Network Rail and ScotRail.

Both companies are working to identify specific areas where greater integration can benefit passengers and freight customers, while recognising their separate identities. The findings of this work will be presented to the Alliance Executive by the end of March 2025.

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The Alliance Board, comprising representatives from ScotRail, Network Rail, Scottish Rail Holdings, and Transport Scotland, will provide oversight for the partnership.

Areas of collaboration between Network Rail and ScotRail include the Integrated Control Centre, a joint climate action plan, and the ongoing work to replace ScotRail's train fleet. The strengthened agreement signifies a commitment to delivering enhanced railway services for Scotland.

Liam Sumpter, Network Rail Scotland Managing Director, said: "Scotland's Railway provides a vital transport link to thousands of people across the country every single day. From vital connections to our rural communities, through to heavily utilised networks across Scotland's cities, our railway community, which also includes over 8,800 colleagues working on track and train, is a vital part of our nation's transport infrastructure.

"Through taking more opportunities to work together and collaborate, we can continue to develop a safer and more reliable railway, which will be to the benefit of Scotland's economy, our environment as well as our passengers, customer and colleagues long into the future."

Joanne Maguire, ScotRail Managing Director, said: "The best way to deliver a safe, reliable, and green railway in Scotland is for ScotRail and Network Rail to work together as much as possible, while recognising that we remain two separate companies.

"The signing of a strengthened Alliance Agreement is a great opportunity to work even more closely with Network Rail. We are committed to greater integration to ensure the best possible service for our passengers and freight customers."