Public Outcry Reverses Regulator's Decision on Manchester-London 'Ghost Train'
In This Article
HIGHLIGHTS
- The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) reversed its decision to run the 07:00 Avanti West Coast service from Manchester to London without passengers after public backlash.
- The train, which completes the journey in under two hours, is crucial for commuters and has been operational since 2008, except during the pandemic.
- The ORR initially cited concerns over the service's impact on the West Coast Main Line's reliability and punctuality.
- Pressure from ministers and northern leaders influenced the ORR's decision to allow passengers on the train.
- Other services, such as those from Blackpool and Chester to London, remain suspended.
In a significant reversal, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has decided to allow passengers on the 07:00 Avanti West Coast service from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston, following widespread public and political pressure. The decision comes after the ORR initially planned to run the train without passengers, citing concerns over its potential impact on the reliability and punctuality of the West Coast Main Line.
Public and Political Pressure
The ORR's initial decision sparked a public outcry, with many commuters and political leaders expressing their dismay. The 07:00 service is the only train linking Manchester and London in under two hours, making it a vital option for early morning travelers. Rail Minister Peter Hendy and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander were among those who urged the ORR to reconsider, emphasizing the service's economic importance.
A Vital Service Restored
The Manchester-London train has been a staple since 2008, except during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent operational challenges faced by Avanti. Known for its punctuality and speed, the service has been a significant revenue generator, with profits now directed to the Department for Transport under Avanti's contract. An ORR spokesperson acknowledged the service's importance, stating, "We understand the importance of this service and will support its continued operation."
Ongoing Service Suspensions
Despite the reversal for the Manchester-London route, the ORR confirmed that other services, including those from Blackpool and Chester to London, will remain suspended. The regulator emphasized the need to manage the overall performance of the rail network, suggesting that these suspensions are necessary to maintain service reliability.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The ORR's decision to reinstate the Manchester-London service highlights the power of public opinion and political influence in shaping transport policy. Moving forward, the ORR and train operators like Avanti West Coast may need to collaborate more closely to balance service reliability with passenger demand. The continued suspension of other routes suggests that further adjustments may be necessary to optimize the network's performance. As the UK rail industry navigates these challenges, stakeholders will likely focus on enhancing infrastructure and operational efficiency to meet commuter needs effectively.
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Public Outcry Reverses Regulator's Decision on Manchester-London 'Ghost Train'
In This Article
Ethan Brooks| Published HIGHLIGHTS
- The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) reversed its decision to run the 07:00 Avanti West Coast service from Manchester to London without passengers after public backlash.
- The train, which completes the journey in under two hours, is crucial for commuters and has been operational since 2008, except during the pandemic.
- The ORR initially cited concerns over the service's impact on the West Coast Main Line's reliability and punctuality.
- Pressure from ministers and northern leaders influenced the ORR's decision to allow passengers on the train.
- Other services, such as those from Blackpool and Chester to London, remain suspended.
In a significant reversal, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has decided to allow passengers on the 07:00 Avanti West Coast service from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston, following widespread public and political pressure. The decision comes after the ORR initially planned to run the train without passengers, citing concerns over its potential impact on the reliability and punctuality of the West Coast Main Line.
Public and Political Pressure
The ORR's initial decision sparked a public outcry, with many commuters and political leaders expressing their dismay. The 07:00 service is the only train linking Manchester and London in under two hours, making it a vital option for early morning travelers. Rail Minister Peter Hendy and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander were among those who urged the ORR to reconsider, emphasizing the service's economic importance.
A Vital Service Restored
The Manchester-London train has been a staple since 2008, except during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent operational challenges faced by Avanti. Known for its punctuality and speed, the service has been a significant revenue generator, with profits now directed to the Department for Transport under Avanti's contract. An ORR spokesperson acknowledged the service's importance, stating, "We understand the importance of this service and will support its continued operation."
Ongoing Service Suspensions
Despite the reversal for the Manchester-London route, the ORR confirmed that other services, including those from Blackpool and Chester to London, will remain suspended. The regulator emphasized the need to manage the overall performance of the rail network, suggesting that these suspensions are necessary to maintain service reliability.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The ORR's decision to reinstate the Manchester-London service highlights the power of public opinion and political influence in shaping transport policy. Moving forward, the ORR and train operators like Avanti West Coast may need to collaborate more closely to balance service reliability with passenger demand. The continued suspension of other routes suggests that further adjustments may be necessary to optimize the network's performance. As the UK rail industry navigates these challenges, stakeholders will likely focus on enhancing infrastructure and operational efficiency to meet commuter needs effectively.
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Northern Powerhouse Rail: Ambitious Plans Amidst Regional Concerns
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