Regulator Reverses Course, Allows Passengers on Manchester-London Train
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has reversed its decision to restrict passengers on a 7am weekday service between Manchester Piccadilly and London Euston, reversing a plan that sparked criticism from commuters. The ORR initially intended to allow Avanti West coast to operate the train with only staff onboard, beginning December 15th.
The regulator stated it reconsidered after receiving feedback and reviewing evidence. “We have taken account of all the evidence and feedback, and we have given Network Rail and Avanti the go ahead to arrange for the 7am service to continue running with passengers,” the ORR said in a statement.
The service, which takes under two hours, operates four days a week. the original proposal aimed to provide “versatility” to help recover services in the event of disruption, according to the ORR’s initial announcement on Saturday.
Despite reversing the decision, the ORR maintains concerns about the service’s potential impact on broader network reliability. “On the basis of the data we have, we believe the running of this 7am service could have a negative impact on reliability and punctuality of services on the West Coast Main Line, but we recognize its importance and popularity and will support its continued operation,” the regulator stated Monday.
Avanti West Coast welcomed the change. ”We are delighted that the Office of Rail and Road has given us permission to reinstate the 07:00 Manchester to Euston weekday service in our December timetable,” a spokesperson said. ”The original decision would have had a detrimental impact on customers who use this train and this advancement is a welcome boost for those who want to take advantage of a sub two-hour service between two of the UK’s major cities.”
This news comes amid ongoing disruption on the UK rail network, including planned strikes by CrossCountry rail workers. Rail fares are also set to be frozen for the first time in 30 years.
