Axed Manchester to London commuter train to continue running – but without passengers
The morning commuter train from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston will continue to operate without passengers.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) said the Avanti West Coast’s 7am departure will now arrive in London with crew only to avoid affecting the reliability of subsequent services.
The decision, which came into force when the tariffs changed on December 15, was criticized by business leaders and politicians, including Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.
But ORR countered that this would improve the overall network.
A spokesman said: “Our decision on the Manchester-London service was based on solid evidence provided by Network Rail that adding services within ‘firebreak’ routes on the West Coast Main Line would have a detrimental impact on performance.
“We have determined that this service will operate on one of these routes. If Avanti operates the service as empty coach stock (ECS), ECS can be operated in a more flexible manner (delayed or rerouted) than a booked passenger service. This can assist with performance management and recovery of service during outage.”
The train, which stops only in Stockport, is one of the country’s fastest intercity services and is popular with business commuters, reaching London just before 9am.
Noting the decision in a post on
The service is also one of the most lucrative, with single ticket prices priced at £193 and £290 for first class.
Avanti West Coast is said to be against the decision. Independent Contacted the operator for comment.
Mr Burnham said Times the service was one of the last services that had to be sacrificed due to its popularity. “Let’s say there’s a high-profile lobby of office-going people.
“Connecting two of the country’s most important economic centres, this is the last service that should be sacrificed. But the idea of operating this service without anyone being allowed on? It becomes emblematic of an industry that sometimes puts its own convenience ahead of that of passengers.”
Industry expert and railway writer Tony Miles said: “It will be on the platform; people will be able to see it, touch it, watch it leave. But they won’t be able to get on it. Taxpayers will be paying for empty trains five days a week.” Guard reported.
