Plans to run direct train services from London to Wrexham and Rochdale have been rejected by the rail regulator due to "significant pressure" on the west coast main line. The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) stated that there was insufficient space on the already crowded line to accommodate the proposed services.
Background
The ORR also vetoed additional London-Blackpool train services requested by Avanti. This decision follows a previous rejection of a new independent open access service linking Wrexham and the capital, which was proposed by the Wrexham, Shropshire & Midlands Railway Company (WSMR). Although WSMR submitted plans for a slightly less frequent service, the ORR concluded that the new routes would jeopardize the reliability of the wider railway network.
Impact on Wrexham
The proposed service could have allowed Wrexham to further benefit from its recent surge in popularity, driven by the town's association with Wrexham AFC co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. Additionally, proposals for a new Lumo service between London and Rochdale were once again rejected after being previously turned down in 2025.
