Fresh plan for Blackpool rail link

GRAND Central, part of the Arriva Group, is bidding to launch regular train services between Blackpool and London from 2017.

The proposals follow the re-introduction in December by Virgin of the direct route from Blackpool North to London Euston, a service which was axed in 2003.

Grand Central says its plan will see investment in new trains, more travelling options for rail users and more jobs.

The open access rail operator is to seek approval from the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR) and will shortly consult the rail industry on the plans.

Grand Central claims to be recognised as the UK’s most trusted long distance rail company, aciting to recent research by Passenger Focus.

Key features of the proposal include six return trains a day between the capital and Blackpool, a fleet of new six-coach Alstom Pendolino trains, and the creation of more than 120 new jobs.

Grand Central managing director Richard McClean said: “Grand Central has a solid reputation for providing great services and achieving market leading customer satisfaction.
 
“Since we began in 2007 we have consistently scored highly in passenger surveys, with our services much valued by more than one million customers.

“We are very excited about the opportunity to provide our market leading services for people on the West Coast Main Line and to delivering much needed services for Blackpool.”