Transport Scotland has implemented its procurement strategy for the replacement of the existing ScotRail Passenger Franchise. Transport Scotland has appointed Abellio ScotRail Limited (an appropriately experienced and qualified operator) to operate the ScotRail Passenger Services Franchise (the “ScotRail Services”).

The maximum length of the contract will be 10 years (subject to the exercise of a discretionary option to extend for up to 26 reporting periods). There will be an appropriate mobilisation period prior to the commencement of operations in April 2015. The ScotRail Services will involve the operation of intercity services between Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness, Aberdeen, Perth, Dundee and Stirling together with a number of commuter, tourist and sub-urban routes. As part of the ScotRail Services Abellio ScotRail Limited will also be required to manage the delivery of the EGIP electrification programme and the procurement and delivery of the EGIP rolling stock and to actively promote social, economic and environmental interests in the delivery of the franchise.