ORR rejects new West Coast services over capacity constraints and risk of worsening delays for passengers

ORR rejects new West Coast services over capacity constraints and risk of worsening delays for passengers Thu, 08/10/2026 - 07:00 8 October 2026 Proposals for new train services between London and Wrexham, Rochdale and Blackpool have been rejected by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) after its assessment found adding more trains to the West Coast Main Line would likely increase delays and cancelled trains for passengers. Cover Image Image Body Components The rail regulator rejected applications from the Wrexham, Shropshire & Midlands Railway Company (WSMR) for four return Wrexham-London Euston services and Lumo’s up to four return Rochdale-Euston services. It also rejected Avanti West Coast’s application for additional Blackpool-Euston services. ORR’s assessment following detailed and extensive analysis is that the capacity and performance of the southern section of the West Coast Main Line has not materially changed since similar applications were rejected in 2025. An external review commissioned by ORR also supported this conclusion. Gaps in the current timetable need to provide important space for trains to recover when disruption occurs, minimising delays to passengers. ORR con

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