A new train service connecting Manchester and London will operate for five months without passengers, drawing criticism from rail users. Starting December 15, Avanti West Coast will run a 7 am weekday service from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston. However, this service will not accept paying customers until May of next year.
Regulatory Decision Behind the Service
The ruling comes from the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), which aims to regulate services between these two major cities. Over the five-month period, approximately 100 trains will run without passengers. The ORR maintains that this decision is based on substantial evidence from Network Rail.
Public Reaction to the Decision
Many passengers have expressed their frustration online. Comments range from disbelief to concern over the operational costs. Amy Mower, for example, questioned the logic of running empty trains, stating, “If it’s running but empty, why not have passengers on it?”
Other users echoed similar sentiments. David Butler remarked on social media, “Seems absolutely insane not to allow passengers on board.” The growing discontent illustrates a notable public outcry against this initiative.
Implications for Train Services
The ORR argues that running non-passenger services will simplify troubleshooting within the network. For example, adjustments to routes or delays can be managed with reduced complications. Despite this, Avanti West Coast expressed disappointment with the ORR’s ruling, particularly on four other weekday services it had to withdraw or alter.
Other Cancellations and Availability
In addition to the new Manchester-London service, several other routes have been canceled. Key services affected include:
- 12:52 PM from Blackpool to London Euston (Monday to Friday)
- 9:39 AM from Euston to Blackpool North (Monday to Friday)
- 7:32 PM from Chester to Euston (Monday to Friday)
- 5:53 PM service from Holyhead to Euston, now terminating at Crewe on Sundays
Despite these cancellations, Avanti West Coast remains committed to delivering more services with the upcoming December timetable.
Current Train Offerings
The Manchester to London route is a busy one, with up to 112 trains operating daily. This equates to about three to four trains every hour. Furthermore, Avanti West Coast and LNER are the primary operators on this crucial route.
Travel Costs
Travel prices on Avanti West Coast trains vary, with average fares as follows:
| Class | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Standard Class | £34 |
| Standard Premium | £66 |
| First Class | £147.50 |
This period of operation without passengers may raise numerous questions about service efficiency and user needs in the rail industry.
