Avanti West Coast services to be nationalised next year

Image source, Danehouse/Getty Images By Peter Hoskins Business reporter Published 54 minutes ago Avanti West Coast train services will be nationalised from March next year, the government has announced.

"For years, we've heard stories of Avanti underperforming, with passengers left paying the price. Enough is enough," Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said.

The move is part of a government plan to improve rail infrastructure, cut train delays and improve experiences for passengers.

Avanti West Coast's managing director said he was "proud of what we've achieved over the last six years". The company's contract was due to come to an end on 7 March.

In a post on social media, Prime Minister Andy Burnham echoed Alexander's comments.

"For years, people have been expected to put up with Avanti's cancellations, delays, overcrowding, and a service that has failed them time and time again," he said.