01.08.13
‘No space’ for Blackpool or Shrewsbury-London services on WCML
Virgin Train’s bid to run direct services from Shrewsbury to London has been rejected by the ORR.
The track access application sought additional services to Blackpool and Shrewsbury on the West Coast Main Line, but the regulator judged the route is already too busy.
Analysis showed there was “not currently sufficient space on the line” and evidence the proposal would have further damaged punctuality. Network Rail upgrades to the WCML are expected to allow opportunities for new services in the future, the ORR said.
ORR chief executive, Richard Price said: “We understand that many people will be disappointed that ORR cannot at this stage give the go-ahead for new direct train services from London to Blackpool and Shrewsbury. We recognise the public support for these proposals, however our analysis shows the introduction of new services would see performance deteriorate on this key route for passengers.
“Although we are unable to grant access right now, we are putting pressure on Network Rail both to improve its performance and to carry out improvements on the West Coast Main Line so that the question of new services from London to Blackpool and Shrewsbury can be looked at again as soon as possible.”
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Image of Shrewsbury station c. PhotoOptikChristopher