Avanti confirms it is reducing number of trains into Blackpool

Train operator Avanti West Coast has confirmed it is reducing its four daily weekday services to and from Blackpool to two a day from next week.

Among the services which will no longer be available will be two crucial direct trains between London and the resort.

The move has been blasted by commuters but Avanti says the decision lies with the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) an independent, non-ministerial government department aimed at protecting rail users and regulating Network Rail.

Avanti has expressed frustration with ORR for implementing the restrictions.

An Avanti West Coast spokesperson said: “We are disappointed with the Office of Rail and Road’s decision not to grant access rights from December for four weekday services that we currently operate, including the 09:39 London to Blackpool North service, and the 12:52 Blackpool North to London service.

“This will clearly impact those customers who already use these services.

“However, we will still be delivering even more services across our network from the start of the December timetable, including further additional trains on our Liverpool route.”

The changes were slammed by one Blackpool rail user, who said: “ I only found out about this when I looked for direct trains to London next week , the announcement is hidden away.

“Places like Stirling, and Cleethorpes are getting brand new services to London next week yet Blackpool is paying the price and losing half of its service.

“The tax payer spent over £100m electrifying the Blackpool line with the promise intercity trains would return. Now , unsurprisingly, the service is to be halved.”

Avanti says its London service to the North West has been boosted, however, by ORR’s decision to reinstate the company’s 07:00 Manchester to London weekday service.

The Avanti spokesperson added: “We are delighted that the Office of Rail and Road has given us permission to reinstate the 07:00 Manchester to Euston weekday service in our December timetable.”

ORR has been approached for a comment on the decision to reduce Blackpool’s services.

The department, however, did issue a statement on the Manchester to London service, stating: “We have taken account of all the evidence and feedback, and we have given Network Rail and Avanti the go ahead to arrange for the 7am service to continue running with passengers.

“On the basis of the information we have, we believe the running of this 7am service could have a negative impact on reliability and punctuality of services on the West Coast Main Line, but we recognise its importance and popularity and will support its continued operation.”