Avanti West Coast has made significant cuts to its train schedules, attributing these changes to what it describes as “unofficial strike action” by its drivers. The decision has led to a substantial reduction in the number of trains running on the West Coast Main Line.
Previously operating up to seven trains per hour, the company will now run only four trains per hour starting Sunday. This move aims to address frequent last-minute cancellations that have troubled passengers in recent weeks. Ticket sales have also been paused until September 11 to accommodate the schedule overhaul.
Timetable Reduction
Avanti West Coast has drastically reduced its train timetables and suspended ticket sales. The company cites “unofficial strike action” by its drivers as the primary reason for this decision. Normally, the operator runs up to seven trains per hour on the West Coast Main Line. However, starting from Sunday, the service will run only four trains per hour to combat frequent last-minute cancellations.
Impact on Services
Services between London Euston and Manchester are particularly affected. Previously, passengers enjoyed three trains per hour, but this will now drop to just one. The reduced timetable will remain “until further notice”, according to Avanti. Ticket sales for travel from Sunday until September 11 have also been suspended while the new schedule is finalised. Tickets for the first week of this period should be available by the end of the current week.
Reasons Behind the Strike
In a letter to the rail industry, Avanti West Coast managing director Phil Whittingham elaborated on the issues causing the disruptions. He pointed to a “current industrial relations climate” leading to severe staff shortages. The company is experiencing increased sickness levels and unofficial strike action by Aslef members. Typically, drivers consent to work on their rest days for extra pay. However, this number has significantly dropped from around 400 trains per week to fewer than 50.
Recruitment and Training
Whittingham said that the previously higher level of voluntary rest day working is essential. More than 250 new drivers are needed and are currently being recruited and trained. The reduced timetable aims to ensure a reliable service so that customers can travel with greater certainty. “This decision was not taken lightly, and we are sorry for the enormous frustration and inconvenience this will cause,” said Whittingham.
Options for Passengers
Passengers who have already purchased tickets for cancelled trains will not be left in the lurch. They are allowed to travel on the service before or after their booked train. Alternatively, if they opt not to travel, they can request a full refund without any additional fees from their point of purchase.
Call for Modernisation
Whittingham has urged rail unions to engage in meaningful talks about modernising working practices. He emphasised the need to develop a railway system suitable for the 21st century. Despite the challenges, the rail industry remains open to discussions at any time.
Wider Context
The situation at Avanti West Coast is not isolated. Drivers at eight other train companies, including CrossCountry, Greater Anglia, and Great Western, will also strike on Saturday. This is part of a long-running dispute over pay and conditions.
Future Prospects
With the changes in the timetable and ongoing recruitment, it’s clear that Avanti West Coast is making significant efforts to stabilise its services. However, the success of these measures will largely depend on achieving a constructive dialogue with the unions and the new recruits’ readiness.
Immediate Effects
For now, Avanti’s customers will need to adjust to the new timetable. The company aims to balance service reliability with the current staffing limitations. This means that, while the frequency of trains has reduced, the goal is to minimise unexpected cancellations.
The situation with Avanti West Coast highlights the challenges faced by the rail industry amid ongoing labour disputes and staffing issues. Passengers will need to adapt to new timetables and available travel options. Meanwhile, meaningful negotiations between the company and unions are crucial for a long-term resolution.
The future of Avanti West Coast’s services depends on successful recruitment efforts and positive outcomes from these discussions. With changes already underway, it remains to be seen how effective these measures will be in stabilising operations and meeting customer expectations.