New services aims to enhance rail connectivity between major cities
Aiming to provide convenient and reliable travel options to passengers, England’s open-access railway operator and First Group’s subsidiary Hull Trains has finally sought approval from the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to operate a new service between Sheffield and London King’s Cross via the East Coast Main Line (ECML).
According to a press statement, these new services aim to enhance rail connectivity between these major cities, with a proposed schedule of two trains daily, including on weekends.
According to news reports, trains from Sheffield to London King’s Cross would depart at 09:20 and 16:54, arriving at 11:44 and 19:14, respectively. Meanwhile, services from London King’s Cross to Sheffield would depart at 12:48 and 19:56, arriving at 14:57 and 21:56 respectively.
In addition to Sheffield, the services will stop at Woodhouse, Retford, and Worksop in Nottinghamshire, making travel more convenient for passengers in these areas.
According to the press statement, the revival of this route is seen as a response to shifting traveller preferences. Many passengers from the east of Sheffield prefer to join London-bound trains at Doncaster or Retford to avoid backtracking to Sheffield. As a result, the ECML is considered a faster and more comfortable alternative to the Midland Main Line.
However, the press statement also notes that the proposed new service raises the possibility of Lumo replacing Hull Trains as the operator, as Lumo is known for catering to cost-conscious travellers. Nevertheless, Hull Trains could better meet the needs of corporate customers by offering a more premium experience.
Meanwhile, according to the press statement, direct trains from Sheffield to London King’s Cross via the ECML were operated during the British Rail era. Hence, the revival of this route is seen as a response to shifting traveller preferences.
Additionally, the growing number of outer-suburban services at London St Pancras has caused congestion on the lines, contributing to delays, and impacting the punctuality of services, thus, making the proposed Sheffield to King’s Cross route an attractive option for those seeking a more efficient journey.
If Hull Trains’ request for approval is granted, the new services would provide an important addition to the UK rail network, offering passengers a convenient and reliable travel option between Sheffield and London.
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