Rail operator warned timetable changes could break franchise pledges

Proposed changes to Northern's timetable could break its franchise agreement

Northern, which operates local services in Yorkshire, has been asked to look again at alterations it is planning to make from May next year which could break the terms of its franchise or lead to a worse service for passengers.

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority has told Northern the changes “include first trains that are not early enough, last trains that are too early, and train frequencies falling short of requirements”.

A combined authority report says the potential franchise breaches “may be the result of errors by [Northern], and they are looking into them”.

Northern is run by Arriva Rail North which took over the franchise for local services last year with a promise of significant improvements.

A spokesman for Northern said “anomalies” had been identified and amendments made.

He said: “Our proposals will see more trains out on the network, faster journeys and increased capacity on key routes during peak hours.

“This will all be supported by a fully refurbished fleet and the early stages of the introduction of our new, purpose built, carriages.”