TRANSPORT

Retaining intercity and commuter rail services

Earlier in the summer, a number of rail operators providing services on the East Coast Mainline announced plans to consult on a reduction in service frequency and capacity along the line. In responding to these planned reductions, the Chamber was keen to highlight the vital commuter services being put at risk, potentially undermining the region’s economic recovery from Covid-19. A common goal in avoiding a repeat of the 2018 timetabling debacle, stemming from a lack of local leader engagement, was also recognised. After a period of internal discussion, DfT released the following statement: “We have agreed that the planned introduction of the May 2022 East Coast Main Line timetable change will not go ahead. It is vital that the views of passengers and local leaders are heard and reflected in the timetable. This decision ensures the lessons of May 2018 are learned, enabling the industry to conduct a full review of its readiness and resolve outstanding issues identified by the industry assurance group. The industry will also focus on delivering an improved, achievable new timetable, which fully considers the consultation responses by passengers and local stakeholders and delivers reliable services on the East Coast.” This policy revision is a good example of the benefits of stakeholder engagement and talking with the Chamber when such decisions are being drafted. With a number of key commuter services being saved, the inflow of workers can continue to drive the economic bounce back experienced across our towns and cities. Furthermore, commuters and investors alike will no doubt warmly welcome the retained services from Bradford to London. The present moment is a critical time in the region’s recovery, and we must ensure connectivity is expanded, not reduced, as we begin to emerge from the pandemic and move back to regular commuting and travelling.