FIFE CIRCLE passengers are set to benefit from a further three months of cheaper rail fares. 

The Scottish Government's pilot scheme to remove peak rail fares and shift to off-peak fares all-day was introduced in October 2023 and was due to end in June. 

Humza Yousaf’s decision to end the powersharing deal ultimately brought down his leadership and led to the election of John Swinney who is set to extend the pilot over the summer. 

When asked about the pilot, the new First Minister said that while it had been “very effective” he was “mindful of the fact that everything has to be paid for”.

READ MORE: Fife MSP wants peak rail fares to be suspended indefinitely

READ MORE: Scotrail passengers to see peak time fares temporarily scrapped

The news has been welcomed by commuters and unions.

Various Fife MSP's, including Alex Rowley, Claire Baker and Mark Ruskell, have been calling for the pilot to be extended.

Annabelle Ewing, MSP for Cowdenbeath, said: “This is fantastic news for commuters who will continue to see significant savings on their daily travel costs. Taking away peak pricing also offers greater flexibility to other travellers. 

“The removal of peak fares was first applied last October for a six-month trial and this second extension means that the Scottish Government have removed peak fares from Scotrail’s pricing structure for a full year.

“For my constituents it will mean that, for example, a return ticket between Inverkeithing and Edinburgh at peak times which last year would have cost £11.10 now costs only £7.10, a saving of £4 per day.

“Making public transport more accessible and more affordable is key to building a wealthier, greener and fairer Scotland and I am delighted that the SNP is delivering that for my constituents.”