Unmasking the 'Ghost Train': Rail Regulator Admits Mistake on Key Manchester-London Service
Regulatory Oversight Exposed: The Office of Road and Rail (ORR) has acknowledged a significant error in their decision regarding a peak-time train service connecting Manchester and London. The ORR’s chief executive, John Larkinson, revealed that the agency was unaware of crucial facts about the service, which nearly became a ’ghost train’ operating without passengers.
Key Points:
The ORR’s initial decision stemmed from a misunderstanding of the train’s operational details, including it being fully crewed and originating from Manchester Piccadilly rather than a depot.
This train was essential for the peak service to Glasgow, scheduled to depart as the 09:30 GMT service.
Following backlash over their decision that would limit the popular 07:00 train to staff only, the ORR quickly retracted it, admitting that new information invalidated their reasoning that the time slot was necessary as a firebreak in the timetable.
Lessons Learned:
Larkinson took full responsibility for the oversight, indicating that the regulatory team failed to seek clarification from the train operating company Avanti, resulting in an uninformed decision. He expressed a commitment to improve processes in light of this incident as the ORR was simultaneously handling 82 complex applications for track access.
Political Response:
Labour MP Ruth Cadbury, chair of the Transport Committee, criticized the ORR’s prior decision, calling it baffling given the train’s popularity. She expressed satisfaction that the ORR has acknowledged its mistake and emphasized the importance of ensuring similar issues are avoided as Great British Railways is established.
Conclusion:
The ORR insists it maintains a good track record overall but recognizes the need for better communication and consideration of vital facts in the future. Once the new information was reviewed, they acted swiftly to reinstate the service, highlighting a dedication to passenger needs.