MP calls for action over commuters' anger at 'gap' in vital Peterborough to London train services
Train operator LNER is being urged to change track over new timetable changes it is claimed have actually cut vital services from Peterborough to London.
The demand has been made by Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes who says he has received a number of complaints from commuters angry at a 41 minute gap between the 7.34am service to London and the 8.15am service.
They say the lack of trains to the capital during this key time is a reduction in services and is particularly frustrating when other LNER services pass through the station during that time without stopping.
Now Mr Pakes has written to the government rail minister requesting a chance to look at ways of resolving the issue.
In his letter to Peter Hendy, Minister of State for Rail, he states: “This 40 minute gap is at a critical travel time for those who need to reach London for work.
"This risks undermining the city’s attractiveness to existing commuters and to those we are seeking to encourage to live and work in Peterborough.
"It is particularly frustrating that during this gap, those waiting at the platform will have to watch as several LNER services pass through the station without stopping.
"This decision runs counter to the Government’s growth ambitions for Peterborough and the wider region.”
Mr Pakes says he is seeking help to resolve "the unfortunate and unhelpful removal of peak-time commuter services from Peterborough to London.”
He adds: “The new LNER timetable, whilst offering some overall benefits, reduces the number of peak time trains to London.
“This change has been introduced with little publicity and without LNER addressing the issue directly, despite widespread concern from both city MPs and season ticket holders.”
Mr Pakes also points out that a £65 million investment in a new Station Quarter regeneration for one of the UK’s fastest growing cities will help make Peterborough and even more attractive place for commuters.
An LNER spokesperson said: "Overall, the new East Coast Main Line timetable is a positive change for Peterborough, with a total of 18 additional services every weekday between the city and London, and improved connectivity to other destinations on the route.
"We are already in communication with Andrew Pakes MP and other local stakeholders about morning services. We will be monitoring the situation and exploring any possibility of adjustments at the next industry timetable change."