Avanti’s Manchester to London Train to Run Empty After Ticket Ruling

A fast commuter train operated by Avanti West Coast will run empty from Manchester to London after the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) denied the company permission to sell tickets for the service. The decision affects the 7:00 AM weekday train from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston, which will commence its operations without passengers starting on December 15, 2025. This move is expected to last for up to five months, with over 100 journeys planned during this period.

The ORR’s ruling, announced on November 29, 2025, was based on evidence provided by Network Rail, which argued that the inclusion of the train in the morning schedule would compromise essential ‘firebreak’ slots on the West Coast Main Line. These slots are crucial for maintaining the overall efficiency of the rail network, minimizing the risk of delays caused by unforeseen events.

In response to the decision, Avanti expressed disappointment, noting that it would adversely affect customers who rely on these services. An Avanti spokesperson stated, “This will clearly impact those customers who already use these services.” The company also emphasized that it would continue to provide additional services across its network, including enhanced routes to Liverpool.

The decision has sparked frustration among passengers, with some taking to social media to voice their discontent. One user described the situation as “absolutely mental,” while another criticized it as an “absurd decision.” Many expressed their concerns regarding the implications for train travel in the UK, with comments highlighting the growing appeal of alternative travel options, such as flights.

As part of the ORR’s ruling, Avanti will lose access rights for four weekday services, including the Manchester–London express. Additionally, a Sunday service from Holyhead to London will now terminate at Crewe instead of continuing to the capital. This regulatory action came after Avanti was granted temporary rights to operate the Manchester–London express until May 2025, prior to the launch of First Lumo’s new services.

The introduction of these open-access trains is expected to begin with the new timetable in December, which influenced the ORR’s decision to remove Avanti’s path. The Daily Mail has reached out to the ORR, Avanti, and Network Rail for further comments on the situation.

With discussions surrounding the future of rail services in the UK intensifying, stakeholders are closely monitoring the impact of such decisions on both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The empty train service raises questions about the sustainability of current rail travel strategies amidst growing competition from other transport modes.