SCOTRAIL has amended its planned changes to the opening times at Kilwinning train station’s booking office.

Following feedback to a public consultation, the rail operator has agreed to open the town’s booking office slightly earlier than originally planned from Monday to Thursday.

The office will open at 6.05am to ensure ticket availability, meaning tickets will still be on sale generally until 8pm Monday to Saturday and 7pm on Sunday.

Donald Reid, Labour councillor for the area, welcomed the decision and said passengers should enjoy the same access to the waiting room and assistance as is currently offered.

He said: “Thanks to all constituents who got in touch during the consultation period.

“I’m content all points put have been listened to and acted upon to maintain a staffing presence with customer service at times of most need. The extension of the lift operating times may also be a welcome addition for those travelling early or late at night who most need the lifts.

“During the consultation I tabled a response representing constituents’ feedback, met with Scotrail and BTP feeding these concerns, and I do feel we got a fair hearing with this outcome.”

Phil Campbell, ScotRail head of customer operations, said: “The changes we propose to make as a result of the public consultation demonstrate we are listening to our customers and creating an environment that improves safety, customer support, and the helpfulness of staff.

“The safety, comfort and wellbeing of our customers is a top priority, and we will always listen to what passengers and people who use our stations have to say.

“We believe this proposal takes into account most of the issues we identified as important in our original plan as well as the views of the public. We are on course to deliver a railway that is modern, safe, and reliable which will serve customers even better in the future.”