Northern Rail Link 'Ghost Train' Service Saved Amid Public Backlash, Regulator Concedes Defeat.
A contentious decision by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has been overturned after widespread criticism from politicians, business leaders, and ordinary passengers. The regulator had initially planned to axe the Manchester-London 7am Avanti service due to concerns over space for manoeuvre in case of disruption β despite Network Rail agreeing that the train could carry passengers as it was running.
The fast link between the two cities has long been a prized service, operating non-stop from Stockport and arriving at Euston just before 9am. It's no surprise given its speed, convenience, and revenue-generating potential that the rail minister, Peter Hendy, and transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, intervened on behalf of the passengers.
The move is seen as a victory for those who rely on the service, including full-time carers and business travellers. Chloe Chapman from Crewe described the news as "amazing" saying it will save her youngest child's hospital appointments by providing an essential, accessible lifeline.
Avanti has welcomed the decision to reinstate the 7am service in their December timetable, stating that it would have had a detrimental impact on customers who use this train.
As the only express service to run so quickly, it's no wonder that the rail regulator finally listened to public opinion and reconsidered its ruling. The reinstatement of this 'ghost train' is set to bring relief to passengers across the north and London, ensuring they can continue to travel between the two cities in just over an hour.
The reinstatement of this service marks a significant shift in the government's approach towards addressing rail issues and implementing policies that benefit users rather than regulators.
A contentious decision by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has been overturned after widespread criticism from politicians, business leaders, and ordinary passengers. The regulator had initially planned to axe the Manchester-London 7am Avanti service due to concerns over space for manoeuvre in case of disruption β despite Network Rail agreeing that the train could carry passengers as it was running.
The fast link between the two cities has long been a prized service, operating non-stop from Stockport and arriving at Euston just before 9am. It's no surprise given its speed, convenience, and revenue-generating potential that the rail minister, Peter Hendy, and transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, intervened on behalf of the passengers.
The move is seen as a victory for those who rely on the service, including full-time carers and business travellers. Chloe Chapman from Crewe described the news as "amazing" saying it will save her youngest child's hospital appointments by providing an essential, accessible lifeline.
Avanti has welcomed the decision to reinstate the 7am service in their December timetable, stating that it would have had a detrimental impact on customers who use this train.
As the only express service to run so quickly, it's no wonder that the rail regulator finally listened to public opinion and reconsidered its ruling. The reinstatement of this 'ghost train' is set to bring relief to passengers across the north and London, ensuring they can continue to travel between the two cities in just over an hour.
The reinstatement of this service marks a significant shift in the government's approach towards addressing rail issues and implementing policies that benefit users rather than regulators.