Liberal Democrats in Oldham have hit out at Avanti West Coast (AWC) amid “chaos and delays” affecting Manchester to London services.  Oldham’s Liberal Democrat Leader and Greater Manchester Transport spokesperson councillor Howard Sykes MBE has branded Avanti “a disgrace” who are “hampering the economy”.

Avanti bosses announced a new timetable aimed at restoring commuter confidence on Thursday (Dec 8) but delays and cancellations have continued, prompting Liberal Democrat councillors to call on the government to strip Avanti of its contract.   

Councillor Sykes said, “The performance of Avanti has been a disgrace, and frankly, the senior figures have acted far too slowly.  They’ve just not delivered for people.  “It’s not just damaging the lives of people because they have these appalling delays, cancellations, and poor journeys.  It’s now hampering the economy.”

“Liberal Democrats are calling for Avanti to lose their West Coast Mainline contract.  Enough is enough.”