U-turn over plan to run Manchester to London train without passengers

The rail regulator has reversed a decision that would have prevented passengers from taking an early morning "ghost train" service between Manchester Piccadilly and London Euston.

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) initially announced Avanti West Coast would be blocked from carrying anyone except staff on its 7am service.

But the ORR has now decided against the timetable change, which was due to take effect in mid-December, after receiving feedback.

"We have taken account of all the evidence and feedback, and we have given Network Rail and Avanti the go ahead to arrange for the 7am service to continue running with passengers," the regulator said in a statement.

The service takes just under two hours from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston and runs four days a week.

The intention was to run the train empty except for Avanti staff who could be transported from Manchester to London when the new timetable launched on 15 December.

On Saturday, the ORR said the measure would add "flexibility" to help services recover in case there was disruption.

But while on Monday the regulator decided to reverse its decision, it remains adamant about the potential risk.

"On the basis of the information we have, we believe the running of this 7am service could have a negative impact on reliability and punctuality of services on the West Coast Main Line, but we recognise its importance and popularity and will support its continued operation," the ORR statement said.

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Meanwhile, Avanti West Coast told Sky News it was "delighted" at the change of plan.

"We are delighted that the Office of Rail and Road has given us permission to reinstate the 07:00 Manchester to Euston weekday service in our December timetable," it said.

"The original decision would have had a detrimental impact on customers who use this train and this development is a welcome boost for those who want to take advantage of a sub two-hour service between two of the UK's major cities."

(c) Sky News 2025: U-turn over plan to run Manchester to London train without passengers