The Scottish Government operates ScotRail via Scottish Rail Holdings (SRH), a company set up to manage Scotland’s national rail services in public ownership.
The move followed the end of the Abellio franchise, with ScotRail transferring into public control in 2022. SRH oversees the day-to-day running of the railway, including timetables, staffing, budgets, rolling stock, and service improvements.
Transport Scotland handles broader transport strategy, investment and policy, while ScotRail focuses on delivering a passenger-first service without private shareholders.
In simple terms, ScotRail is now a publicly run railway, managed in Scotland for the benefit of Scottish passengers.
Rolling Stock and Sustainability
ScotRail operates a diverse fleet, from Class 385 electric units on the Central Belt routes to refurbished Inter7City trains on longer intercity runs. The operator is committed to decarbonising the network, with plans for more electrification and hydrogen-powered trains on rural routes.
