‘Lack of timeline’ to remedy Network Rail failings

NETWORK RAIL has identified the main causes of poor performance in one of its regions but lacked a “clear timeline” for taking action, according to the rail regulator.

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has published its conclusions from an investigation into Network Rail’s poor performance in its North West and Central (NW&C) region, which includes the West Coast Main Line.

When the investigation was launched, Network Rail had fallen too far behind its targets, said the ORR, adding it was not convinced sufficient action had been taken to turn performance around for passengers and freight users.

The ORR found Network Rail had identified the main causes of poor performance and developed remedial action plans, but it lacked a clear timeline on when these would be delivered. Network Rail has since provided the ORR with milestones on when improvements will be made.

A decline in performance in the region started in mid-2017, and a further drop occurred in 2018, mainly from the impact of the timetable change in May that year – particularly on the former Northern Rail franchise – said the ORR.

The ORR report concluded the main reasons for under-performance were asset management and service-affecting failures, with 45 per cent of delays attributed to failures of track equipment, points and overhead lines, trespass and unexplained failures.

It also highlighted issues with the management of the network and timetable changes, as well as train and freight operating companies-related factors outside Network Rail’s control.