Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, What the planned milestones are for the West Coast Main Line timetable recast referred to in paragraph 32 of the Office of Rail and Road’s decision letter of 8 October 2026; and when an assessment of its potential to accommodate additional passenger services will be completed.

Network Rail is developing its December 2028 timetable submission, with a focus on improving reliability and punctuality. Work remains at an early stage and a number of timetable options are currently being explored.

No decisions have yet been taken on the accommodation of additional passenger services. Network Rail is working with train operators, including Avanti West Coast, and other industry partners to assess the available options, and conclusions will be reached as the timetable development work progresses.