Andrew Gwynne, MP for Denton and Reddish, has criticised the Government’s latest announcement on the Northern Rail franchise.
Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for Transport, has announced he is evaluating a proposal from the train operator on options for continuing its franchise. This could eventually lead to the nationalisation of the services.
The franchise is operated by Arriva Rail North and runs services across the North West, North East and Yorkshire, including lines running through the Denton and Reddish constituency.
The operator has faced widespread criticism for the quality of the service that it is provided, including widespread cancellations.
Andrew Gwynne said:
“It is clear to everyone in the region that Northern Rail is a failing franchise that is letting down passengers who have to deal with sky-high fares, cancelled trains and a bare bones service.
“Despite the Government’s rhetoric, they have shown once again that they are unwilling to get a hold on this shambolic situation.
“The Government should bite the bullet and strip this failing operator of the franchise now.
“People in London and the south would not have had to wait years for the Government to act, and neither should those of us in the north.”