Commuters in Staffordshire could breathe a sigh of relief after Labour’s announcement to take Britain’s “worst railway operator” into public ownership next March.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander confirmed the takeover of Avanti West Coast at the Labour Party conference, with services transferring to public control on 7 March 2027.
The announcement follows persistent criticism of the operator’s reliability and cancellations.
Office of Road and Rail ‘On Time’ data records (arriving at a station within 59 seconds of schedule).
In the last 12-months period, Avanti was recorded as the UK’s worst-performing line for delays, with only 57.4% of services arriving on time, and 5.6% of scheduled services entirely cancelled.
The Government will exercise a termination clause in the existing operating contract, which could otherwise have continued until 2032, as part of its wider plans for Great British Railways.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council Leader Jane Ashworth said affordable, dependable rail services were essential to the city’s wider transport ambitions.
“I support this move – and this government’s commitment to building a rail system that works for the people,” she said.
“We will be investing more than £105 million in the coming years to deliver better buses, roads and safer walking and cycling routes.
“Ensuring we have affordable and reliable rail is a vital part of the overall mix in creating a better connected Stoke-on-Trent.”
Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced the decision, criticising years of disruption and promising a renewed focus on passengers.
He said: “We’re putting essential services back in public hands and building a railway that actually works for the people who use it.”
The ownership change will be accompanied by an improvement programme, including £10 million for power and signalling maintenance, timetable changes intended to improve reliability, better facilities at London Euston and improved onboard internet connectivity.
Ministers say the reforms will redirect money currently paid in private operator fees towards passenger services.
Avanti managing director Andy Mellors said the company would work with the Government to ensure a smooth transition, while continuing to serve customers and communities.
He pointed to investment during the company’s tenure, including refurbished Pendolino trains, the introduction of its Evero fleet and an expanded service offering.
Andrew Mynors, Cabinet Member for Connectivity at Staffordshire County Council, said: “It would have been beneficial for Staffordshire to have been consulted in this decision process and plans for this major change.
“This announcement presents an important opportunity to deliver the reliable, punctual, and passenger-focused rail service that people and businesses across Staffordshire rightly expect.
“Avanti West Coast provides vital connections through the county, supporting access to jobs, education, and leisure as well as our wider economic ambitions. The priority now must be a smooth transition to public ownership, with a clear focus on reducing cancellations and delays, improving capacity, and rebuilding passengers’ confidence in the service.”
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