Rail operator Avanti West Coast has performed a dramatic U-turn, abandoning a controversial plan to convert a popular early morning commuter service into a so-called 'ghost train' that would have carried only staff.
Passenger Fury Over Axed Service
The proposal would have seen the 07:00 weekday service from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston run without any paying passengers from December 15th. The move sparked immediate and fierce backlash from commuters who rely on the fast train, which completes the journey in under two hours and arrives in the capital before 9am.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR), the industry regulator, had initially approved the plan. Their reasoning centred on managing potential congestion on the West Coast Main Line, especially with the introduction of new services from operator Lumo from Stirling to London in December. The regulator argued that removing the service from passenger use would provide crucial operational flexibility to mitigate disruption.
A Swift Reversal Following Outcry
Facing a storm of criticism, the ORR reassessed its decision within 24 hours. After considering all evidence and feedback, it granted Avanti and Network Rail permission to continue running the 7am service with passengers.
Mayor of Manchester, Andy Burnham, welcomed the reversal but criticised the situation, stating on social media platform X: “I am glad common sense has prevailed BUT the UK’s fastest-growing city-region should not be in the position of having to beg and plead for basic rail connectivity.”
Underlying Issues of Rail Capacity
Industry figures highlighted that the controversy pointed to deeper problems. Henri Murison, chief executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, told ITV News that running a 'ghost train' until May, with or without passengers, was a symptom of a strained network. “We should never have given more permissions for more services on the West Coast Mainline without providing more capacity,” he said.
The ORR acknowledged the continued operation could negatively impact reliability and punctuality on the line. It stated it now expects train operators and Network Rail to find ways to best mitigate these performance impacts.
An Avanti West Coast spokesperson expressed delight at the reinstatement, calling it a “welcome boost” for customers relying on the sub-two-hour link between two major UK cities. A Network Rail spokesperson also welcomed the decision, confirming they would work closely with Avanti to support the service's operation.
