Following disruption to some train services that has arisen since the introduction of the new Northern timetable last month, local MP, David Rutley, has met with senior regional representatives from Northern to raise concerns on behalf of local passengers.
Like many passengers, David has been concerned about the number of services that have been withdrawn or cancelled since the new timetable was implemented, as well as delays and other operational issues. Although the most significant disruption has affected lines to the north of Manchester, passengers using stations such as Macclesfield, Poynton and Prestbury have also experienced frustrating delays or cancellations. David took the opportunity to raise these important issues on behalf of local residents and urged the need for passengers to see improvements to services, and for compensation to be made available to those affected.
Liam Sumpter, Northern’s Regional Director for the Central Region, which covers the Macclesfield constituency, gave assurances that Northern is working to ensure that the new timetable is fully delivered as soon as possible. He explained that an interim timetable was introduced in the beginning of June, to help stabilise the situation for passengers. There will be a review of the situation at the end of July, after which Northern aims to have complete roll-out of the planned timetable. Once fully implemented, residents will see additional train services at local stations, including Macclesfield, Adlington, Disley, Poynton and Prestbury stations.
Mr Sumpter also explained that the Department for Transport is currently working with Transport for the North, the new organisation providing strategic direction for transport across the North of England, to develop a compensation scheme for passengers most affected by the recent disruption. Northern hopes to be able to announce further details in the near future.
Speaking after the meeting, David said, "I know that many passengers have been disappointed and frustrated by the issues that have affected the introduction of the new Northern timetable and it is vital that they can have greater certainty and stability going forward. I am grateful to Mr Sumpter and his team for meeting with me and for the assurances they have given that the company is working to stabilise the situation as quickly as possible, and to ensure that passengers affected will be compensated. I will continue to stand up for local passengers on this important issue in the weeks and months ahead."