On 29 November 2023 we opened an investigation into Network Rail’s Wales & Western region’s compliance with the Network Licence. This was because despite the delivery of planned improvement activities, the train performance levels experienced by customers continued to be below expectations.
Page updated on 10 July 2024.
Investigation outcomes
On 29 May 2024 we published the findings of our investigation. We also gave notice that we propose to make an order setting out the actions Network Rail needs to take.
Our final investigation report sets out why we think Network Rail is contravening condition one of its licence.
Our Notice and draft Final Order sets out what we propose to require Network Rail to do to address train performance in the region. This includes setting out improvement plans that will deliver sustainable performance improvements, including further developing its plan for the Thames Valley section of the Western route known as ‘Project Brunel’.
The draft final order was subject to a three week consultation period. During this time, we received representations from four organisations, including Network Rail.
We have considered these representations and have advised Network Rail that we have decided to make the final order without any changes.
In summary, the order requires Network Rail to produce by 31 August 2024 a robust and evidenced plan identifying those further activities that it will undertake to secure compliance with condition 1 of the network licence.
If, by 31 October 2024, ORR is satisfied that Network Rail has failed to produce the plan in accordance with the final order, Network Rail will be required to pay the reasonable sum of £3 million.