Manchester-London ‘Ghost Train’ Decision: Regulator Admits Uninformed Choice
The rail regulator has acknowledged a significant oversight in its recent decision regarding the peak-time train service between Manchester and London, which could have resulted in a ‘ghost train’ operating daily without passengers.
Key Points from the Regulator’s Admission:
– The Office of Road and Rail (ORR) admitted it did not have all the facts when it chose to prohibit passenger services on this crucial route.
– Chief Executive John Larkinson revealed that the ORR lacked critical points about the train’s operation, including:
– The train would be “fully crewed.”
– It would depart from Manchester Piccadilly, not a depot.
– Its requirement to reach Euston in order to transform into the 09:30 GMT service to Glasgow.
Larkinson stated, The information that later became available to us showed that our assumption was incorrect. This revelation comes after the ORR faced backlash in November for permitting the popular 07:00 train to run only—with no passengers—carrying just staff.
Background of the Controversy:
– The ORR’s original decision would have taken effect from mid-December but was quickly reversed due to public criticism.
– The justification for running the service empty was that it would serve as a “firebreak” in the timetable to manage potential delays.
– Following additional inquiries from Ruth Cadbury, chair of Parliament’s Transport Committee, Larkinson confirmed that subsequent information indicated the slot was no longer a viable firebreak.
Process Failures Identified:
– Larkinson admitted that the ORR did not seek further information from Avanti, the train operating company, which could have clarified these important details.
– At the time of the decision, the ORR was handling 82 complex and competing applications for track access.
– Even when Avanti raised concerns in early November, these were not escalated appropriately within the ORR.
A Commitment to Improvement:
Acknowledging the unusual nature of this case, Larkinson stated, I take full responsibility for what happened, and we are strengthening our processes to reflect the lessons learned.
In response, Cadbury expressed that the public was understandably baffled by the ORR’s decision, noting it was particularly strange given the train’s popularity and profitability. She emphasized the need for better communication and accountability within the regulator as the government moves towards establishing Great British Railways.
Moving Forward
The ORR maintains it has a solid track record of balance but recognizes that it failed to consider new information adequately before making its decision. A spokesperson reiterated, When all the facts were made clear, we acted swiftly to maintain the service for passengers.
In light of these developments, both the ORR and Parliament are looking for ways to prevent similar situations in the future, ensuring that services like the Manchester-London route continue to operate effectively for commuters.