ORR’s assessment of Network Rail’s Wales and Western region finds it is delivering efficiencies but calls for action on poor train performance

ORR’s report finds that train service performance in Wales and Western deteriorated more quickly than in other regions from the record levels of the previous year, and was poor compared with pre-pandemic levels. 

The regulator is particularly concerned about train performance in the Wales route. ORR wants to see clear and targeted plans that will deliver much needed improvements. 

The report finds that asset reliability in the Wales and Western region worsened, contributing to poor train performance. ORR calls for the region to take action to ensure it delivers its renewals plans and to reduce its backlog of structures examinations.

ORR also found that Wales and Western performed well against its efficiency target, delivering £121 million in efficiencies in the year.  

Patrick Crowley, ORR’s Senior Regulation Manager for the Wales and Western region said:

Notes to Editors

1. Network Rail Annual Assessment Wales and Western region
2. Network Rail Annual Assessment GB
3. Network Rail Annual Assessment national press release