We welcome letters for ‘Forum’ Please send them, ideally by e-mail, to:
modernrailways@keypublishing.com
Modern Railways, Transport Writing Services, PO Box 206, Tunbridge Wells North TN1 2XA
Please supply your postal address, even if writing by e-mail. Please note that we may edit letters for publication. Views expressed in this letters feature are not necessarily those of the editors or publishers.
WEST OF ENGLAND WORSENING
Richard Evans’ letter in your December issue regarding the West of England line is absolutely ‘on the nail’ Contrary to the editor’s note, can assure you that the decline in performance has been long-term and predates the autumn period. The target PPM (Public Performance Measure) of 89.1% has been missed in every period in the last 12 months. November 2019 was the worst last year with 55.6%. A route that once had very good reliability is now beset with cancellations and numerous short formations.
The only conclusion that can be drawn from this decline is that the decisions made by the franchisee, be it on standards of maintenance of trains or the recruitment of sufficient drivers and guards, have been seriously flawed. Also, the rolling stock work required for Persons with Reduced …
