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The planned transfer is part of a wider government programme to bring contracted rail services into public ownership.
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Avanti West Coast’s train services will move into public ownership in March 2027, the government has announced. The operator’s current contract is due to end on 7 March. [1]
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander described Avanti as underperforming. The government says the transfer is part of a wider plan intended to improve rail infrastructure, reduce delays and make journeys better for passengers. [1]
Avanti managing director Andy Mellors said the company would work with the government on the handover. He pointed to refurbished Pendolino trains, new Evero trains and an increase in services among the company’s achievements. [1]
Avanti is a joint venture owned by FirstGroup and Trenitalia. Great Western Railway, which is owned by FirstGroup, is also scheduled to move into public ownership in December 2026. [1]
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