Subway stations close 60 times within weeks

GLASGOW’s Subway stations have been closed more than 60 times over recent weeks as the underground service battles staff shortages.

West Street station has suffered the most upheaval, being shut 32 times since April 7, while Kinning Park was closed on 18 occasions, Kelvinhall, seven times, Ibrox, four times, and Cowcaddens once in the same period.

Glasgow Green councillors have now demanded a solution is found pointing out people should be encouraged to take public transport to fight climate change.

Subway operator, Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), said it hasn’t always had full numbers of workers to cover duties because of staff turnover and the pandemic. It confirmed a recruitment drive is under way.

Commenting on the problems, Green councillor Christy Mearns said: “It’s imperative transport is significantly improved and made more accessible, in order to tackle inequality, improve opportunities, and lower climate emissions. It’s therefore extremely disappointing that many passengers are continuing to experience Subway closures at several stations across the city.

“Green Councillors have written to SPT to express our dissatisfaction with Subway closures.”

A SPT spokesperson said: “SPT has been coping with a number of operational issues recently which has meant we have not always had a full complement of staff to cover the entire Subway system.

“Staff availability has been adversely affected by a number of issues including staff turnover as well as the Covid pandemic. This does mean we have had to make sudden changes to keep the majority of the system running.

“SPT has been, and will be again, actively recruiting within Subway to help deal with the current staffing issues. A number of new staff are undergoing assessment at the moment. Once they are in place and with the next batch of successful applicants appointed, this will help with the current operational issues we have been experiencing.”