Plans to run the 07:00 Avanti West Coast service from Manchester Piccadilly to London Euston without passengers have been scrapped following a swift U-turn by the government regulator.

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) initially announced on Sunday that only staff would be allowed on board from mid-December, citing concerns that carrying passengers could “harm the overall performance” of the West Coast Main Line. However, after public feedback, the regulator reversed the decision just over 24 hours later, allowing Network Rail and Avanti West Coast to continue operating the service with passengers.

An ORR spokesperson said:

“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.”

Avanti West Coast welcomed the decision. A spokesperson said:

“The original decision would have had a detrimental impact on customers who use this train and this development is a welcome boost for those who want to take advantage of a sub two-hour service between two of the UK’s major cities.”

The ORR clarified that the U-turn only affects the 07:00 Manchester to London train. Other services will not resume, including: the 12:52 Blackpool North to London Euston, the 09:39 London Euston to Blackpool North, the 19:32 Chester to London Euston, and the 17:53 Holyhead to London Euston (terminating at Crewe on Sundays).

Image: Avanti West Coast