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The government regulator has reversed its earlier decision regarding a key morning train service between Manchester and London. Initially, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) planned to operate the 07:00 GMT Avanti West Coast train from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston without any passengers on board, effectively making it a “ghost train.” This move was met with significant public opposition, prompting the regulator to reconsider its stance.
The ORR had announced on Sunday that starting in mid-December, only staff members would be allowed to travel on this service, citing concerns that carrying passengers might negatively affect the performance and reliability of the West Coast Main Line. However, within just over 24 hours, the ORR issued a statement indicating that after taking into account the public feedback, it would permit Network Rail and Avanti West Coast to operate the service with passengers once again.
An ORR spokesperson explained, “On the basis of the information 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 recognise its importance and popularity and will support its continued operation.” Avanti West Coast expressed its pleasure at the change in policy, highlighting the value the train offers to its customers. The company’s spokesperson said the original decision would have adversely affected passengers relying on the service and welcomed the move as a positive outcome for those benefiting from the sub-two-hour journey between these major cities.
It is important to note that the ORR’s reversal applies exclusively to this particular 07:00 service from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston. Other train services remain cancelled, including the 12:52 Blackpool North to London Euston, the 09:39 London Euston to Blackpool North, the 19:32 Chester to London Euston, and the 17:53 Holyhead to London Euston route, which will terminate at Crewe on Sundays
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