A major early morning express train service connecting Manchester and London has been saved from running as an empty 'ghost train' following a significant U-turn by the rail regulator.
Regulator Reverses Controversial 'Ghost Train' Decision
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has overturned its original ruling, which would have seen the popular 7am express from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston operate daily without any passengers on board from 15 December. The service, which calls at Stockport and completes the journey in just under two hours, will now continue to carry travellers as normal.
The initial decision was based on Network Rail's request to keep the train's allocated 'path' – a slot on the busy West Coast Main Line – clear as a strategic 'firebreak'. This practice is designed to introduce slack into the timetable, allowing for more flexible recovery during major disruptions like signal failures.
Industry and Political Opposition Forces Rethink
The proposal faced immediate and strong criticism from both the train operator, Avanti West Coast, and the Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander. Their opposition was a key factor in the regulator's review, culminating in the reversal announced on Monday.
An ORR spokesperson explained the change of heart: "We have taken account of all the evidence and feedback... While we believe the running of this 7am service could have a negative impact on reliability and punctuality... we recognise its importance and popularity and will support its continued operation."
A Welcome Boost for Commuters and Connectivity
The news has been welcomed by the operator and passengers who rely on the sub-two-hour link between two of the UK's major economic hubs. An Avanti West Coast spokesperson told The Guardian they were "delighted" with the outcome, stating the original plan "would have had a detrimental impact on customers."
The episode highlights the constant tension in the rail industry between maximising capacity for passengers and maintaining robust, resilient timetables that can withstand daily disruptions on a congested network.
