Northern Rail branded 'unacceptable' by govt as talks to revoke the company of its franchise continue

Friday, 3 January 2020 10:17

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has described Northern rail services as "unacceptable" as widespread delays continue to disrupt services across the north.

Recent statistics published by the Office of Rail and Road have shown that throughout December 6.2% of Northern Rail services were cancelled, the highest figure since the company’s timetable changes in May 2018.

Regarding the recent scrutiny the rail company has come under, David Brown, managing director at Northern, said the company had faced challenges beyond its control in recent years.

One includes the late delivery of major infrastructure projects, such as the North West electrification, more than two years late.

Mr Brown added: "Arriva and Northern remain fully committed to delivering the transformation of the North's railways and improving customers' experience.

“We are delivering the biggest transformation of local rail for a generation."

The Department for Transport confirmed Mr Shapps had started the process that could see Northern being stripped of its franchise, with talks reportedly ongoing, and a decision set to be made within the coming weeks.

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