ScotRail’s new safety initiative sparks backlash from Glasgow commuters

ScotRail’s new safety initiative has sparked backlash from Glasgow commuters.

The initiative is at Glasgow Central Station, and involves departure information being removed from the boards 30 seconds earlier than previously.

As of late January 2025, train times and platform details on departure boards are removed earlier than before. Previously, this information disappeared 60 seconds before departure, but under the new system, it will now be removed 90 seconds before the train leaves.

ScotRail claims this additional time will help prevent passengers from rushing for trains, reducing the risk of falls.

We're making some changes to the departure boards at Glasgow Central. From today, train information on display will be removed 90 seconds before departure, instead of the current 60 seconds. This change will help prevent falls as people run to catch a service. @NetworkRailGLC pic.twitter.com/4oZrcQ5WYl

— ScotRail (@ScotRail) February 3, 2025

The company announced on X: “We’re making some changes to the departure boards at Glasgow Central. From Tuesday, train information on display will be removed 90 seconds before departure, instead of the current 60 seconds. This change will help prevent falls as people run to catch a service.”

However, many commuters were unimpressed by the change, arguing that it could make them more likely to miss their trains. One user responded: “Great work, lads. People will now have to run even faster to get to the train in case they’re about to miss the one they need.”

Another commenter said: “This is the stupidest thing you’ve ever posted, and that’s a high bar.”

A further person also agreed, commenting: “As if the service wasn’t bad enough already, but if you’re going for five star bad service then this is the way”.

Others echoed these concerns saying new measure could cause confusion and frustration for passengers unfamiliar with the change.

ScotRail was contacted for comment but has not yet replied.