ScotRail Service Cancellations and Travel Warnings Issued Across Scotland

Public transport will continue to operate, but ScotRail has confirmed that several rail services will be cancelled or suspended. Network Rail also warned that trains will run at reduced speeds across much of Scotland from Saturday night into Sunday.

Passengers should check their service before travelling and expect significant disruption, delays and longer journey times.

ScotRail lines affected

• Glasgow Central–Ayr line: Services will be suspended between Kilwinning and Ayr from around 21:00 on Saturday.
• Glasgow Queen Street–Oban/Mallaig routes: Services will be affected between Fort William and Mallaig, and between Crianlarich and Oban, from around 22:00.
• Inverness–Kyle of Lochalsh line: The line will be closed between Kyle of Lochalsh and Achnasheen. Services are expected to resume on Sunday.
• Inverness–Wick/Thurso line: The line will be closed between Helmsdale and Wick or Thurso. Services are expected to resume on Sunday.

Police warning to drivers

Police Scotland’s Deputy Director of Roads Policing, Supt Andy Barclay, warned motorists that dangerous conditions could persist. He urged people to consider whether travelling over the weekend was “really necessary”.

Drivers were advised to:

• Allow for longer stopping distances: Wet roads can generate at least twice as many droplets as dry conditions, while spray can reduce visibility.
• Take extra care in HGVs and buses: Drivers should use extreme caution and may be asked by police to park in a suitable location.
• Allow extra time: Anyone who needs to travel by car should drive according to the conditions and leave additional time for their journey.
• Check travel updates: Traffic Scotland’s website and social media channels will provide information about affected roads.

RNLI coastal safety warning

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) said the conditions could put visitors at risk and advised people to use “extreme caution” near the coast, especially around exposed cliffs, beaches and piers.

Michael Avril, the charity’s head of water safety, urged people to keep a safe distance from the water, warning that in some situations “you could be thrown off your feet or swept out to sea”.

CalMac ferry cancellations

CalMac cancelled several sailings on Friday and amended Saturday’s timetable for the MV Isle of Mull, which operates between the mainland and South Uist and Barra.

Passengers should check ScotRail, CalMac and Traffic Scotland updates before setting out.