Statement on ORR approval of new off-peak train services between Lancashire and London

ORR director economic regulation, John Larkinson, said:

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has approved an application from the Great North Western Railway Company (GNWR) for new off-peak train services between Lancashire and London on the West Coast Main Line. ORR recognises the benefits competition between train operators can bring to passengers and welcomes applications for new train services where they meet required criteria and provide real benefits for rail users.

In this instance the proposed new services will bring significant passenger benefits with extra direct London – Blackpool trains, new journey opportunities including new direct services to and from Poulton-le-Fylde and Kirkham & Wesham, and improved journey times. The regulator will include conditions in GNWR's access contract to secure these benefits. The company's plans submitted to the ORR include additional investment in stations and trains, bringing further benefits to passengers.

The decision letter is available at: https://orr.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/18689/gnwr-wcml-s18-decision-letter-2015-08-07.pdf