TransPennine Express (TPE) has just become the second operator of trains serving Greater Manchester to be brought under government control after months of poor performance. It follows Northern Rail being brought under government control early in 2020, after what then transport secretary Grant Shapps described as 'unacceptable' performance. Anthony Smith, Transport Focus’s chief executive, said in a statement: “TransPennine Express passengers have endured an unacceptable service for too long. “Whichever organisation runs TransPennine Express rail services – under whatever contractual arrangements – passengers will want to see a much more reliable service. “This is a victory for northern mayors who rallied together to hold TransPennine Express and Rishi Sunak’s Government to account on this issue.

Source: Express May 14, 2023 10:52 UTC