Network Rail and Northern Rail have announced that they are commissioning an independent report and recommendations into the preparations and processes taken in the lead up to the implementation of the new timetable, which came into force on the 20th May 2018.
Since the introduction of the new timetable, many train passengers have faced delays, cancellations, and overcrowding.
The timetable change, which was the biggest in decades, was designed to boost capacity for its passengers, but unfortunately, has since not been able to make that delivery, especially on routes around North Manchester and extending up to Blackpool.
The investment in the north meant shorter journeys and more train. There will be more frequent trains delivered through the Great North Rail Project, such as the Preston to Blackpool North via Kirkham and Wesham electrification.
This is in addition to the measures announced earlier this week with regards to the government. More information on this announcement can be read here.
What did the officials say?
Martin Frobisher, managing director for Network Rail‘s London North Western route, said:
“We recognise how tough it has been for customers, particularly since the May timetable change last weekend and we’re sorry for that. We are working hard with Northern to get service back to where it needs to be. We will work as one team to achieve this.
“The independent report will ensure lessons are learned and that there are no repeats of current problems as we prepare for the next major timetable change in December this year.”
David Brown, managing director of Northern, said:
“We are doing everything we can to minimise cancellations and delays and keep our customers informed. It has been difficult for many of our customers and I am truly sorry for this.
“There is urgent work to do to fully understand what did and didn’t work on all aspects of planning and delivery of the new timetable.
“We are committed to working with Network Rail and Northern stakeholders to deliver the services our customers expect and deserve.”
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Responses
Needs more than a bloody report doing on it. Northern is a complete disaster at the moment but constructive discussions between all parties – and the unions – needs to be done sooner rather than later.
Perhaps someone could explain why services to Windermere and Blackpool South are the first to be cancelled? This is common knowledge and a reply without any sort of spin would show some commitment to telling your customers the truth.
Also, the line “The investment in the north meant shorter journeys and more train. There will be more frequent trains delivered through the Great North Rail Project, such as the Preston to Blackpool North / South via Kirkham and Wesham electrification.” needs re-written. There is no electrification to Blackpool South and there is no additional trains to Blackpool South either – there is nothing in the franchise commitment either to increase services to Blackpool South.
Thank you for spotting that mistake! I have now updated to rectify this 🙂
Regards,
Michael