Avanti West Coast Services to be Nationalised from March
BBC News (28 September 2026)
Avanti West Coast train services will be nationalised from March next year, the government has announced.
"For years, we've heard stories of Avanti underperforming, with passengers left paying the price," said Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander. "Enough is enough."
The move is part of a government plan to improve rail infrastructure, cut train delays, and enhance passenger experiences.
Avanti West Coast's managing director expressed pride in their achievements over the last six years, while acknowledging the upcoming change:
"We'll work closely with the government to ensure a seamless transition into public ownership," said Andy Mellors, "while remaining focused on delivering for our customers and communities."
Avanti West Coast operates key routes through northern England and into Scotland, including services between Glasgow and Edinburgh and London Euston. It also runs a service between London and Wales, to Holyhead.