Rail operators have reversed their decision to transform a busy commuter service into a ‘ghost train’ restricted to staff only. Passengers expressed outrage at the potential loss of the service that allows them to reach London in under two hours before 9 am. However, the plan for the Avanti West Coast fast service to depart from Manchester Piccadilly at 7:00 am on four weekdays bound for Euston with no passengers has been scrapped.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) had initially proposed that Avanti’s 7 am service from Manchester Piccadilly to London should only transport staff essential for maintaining morning train operations at Euston. This decision was aimed at creating flexibility in case of disruptions. The ORR made this choice following the approval of a new rail operator, lumo, to commence services from Stirling to London Euston in December, potentially increasing congestion on the line.
Avanti’s rights to operate the popular early morning service were set to expire on December 15th. The ORR had previously expressed concerns that allowing Avanti West Coast to continue the service could impact overall performance due to potential congestion on the West Coast Main Line. The 7 am service, dubbed the ‘ghost train,’ would have been required to operate empty to manage rail service pressures.
After public backlash and pressure from officials like Mayor Andy Burnham and Henri Murison, the ORR revisited its decision, allowing Avanti to continue running the service with passengers. While this may affect reliability on the West Coast Main Line, the regulator acknowledged the service’s importance and committed to supporting its ongoing operation.
Avanti welcomed the decision, stating it would benefit customers seeking a quick connection between Manchester and London. Network Rail also expressed support for the service’s continuation and pledged to collaborate with Avanti to ensure its smooth operation.
Passengers reacted to the news with mixed feelings, with some criticizing the initial plan as “bizarre” and “ridiculous.”