Network Rail Eastern has been ordered to develop an improvement plan by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) following a significant rise in delays across the region.
Over the past two years, delays have increased from 2.4 million to 3.3 million minutes annually. This decline in punctuality and reliability is expected to worsen unless corrective measures are implemented.
While the Anglia route remains relatively stable, the East Coast Main Line and East Midlands route have experienced notable disruptions. Additionally, London Overground and freight services on the North London/Mildmay line have seen a sharp decline in performance.
ORR Director of Strategy, Policy and Reform, Stephanie Tobyn, expressed concern over the situation, stating, "We have seen a trend of rising delays in parts of the Eastern region in recent months, with passengers and freight users not seeing the punctual and reliable service they should expect from the rail network."
Tobyn emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach, involving close collaboration between Network Rail and train operators. She highlighted the success of Network Rail Wales & Western's improvement plan, urging Network Rail Eastern to adopt a similar strategy.
Network Rail Eastern has committed to delivering the improvement plan by 20 December 2024.
In the letter sent to ORR on October 21, Network Rail stated issues within the ‘whole system’ as to contributing factors to its failures, including a 12% rise of on-time failures attributed to operators.
The ORR said it will closely monitor the company's progress and ensure that effective measures are implemented to restore reliable rail services in the region.
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