Transport Focus response to changes in Avanti West Coast services

30 October 2023

David Sidebottom, Director, Transport Focus

“After previous poor performance, leading to missed meetings, appointments and leisure events, passengers will be dismayed that Avanti have once again chosen to make timetable changes and reduce the number of services during one of the busiest months of the year. This indicates that the rail industry still cannot provide a full, robust timetable.

In October we cautiously welcomed the award of the continuing contract, but we urged them to deliver a more frequent and reliable service. To announce these reductions so close to December is not going to regain passenger trust and get them back on the train. However, a temporary timetable that can deliver a service that passengers can rely on is better than an unpredictable timetable that causes frustration with short notice cancellations.”