Blackburn with Darwen Council Leader Phil Riley has written to Northern raising “significant” concerns regarding the frequent Sunday train cancellations at Blackburn train station.
He said it was an “unacceptable record” that is having a detrimental impact on local communities and the economy.
Figures show that Northern’s rail services have been plagued with regular disruptions.
The ongoing issue has sparked frustration from residents, commuters, businesses, and leisure travellers alike.
The research from On Time Trains found that over 45% of services scheduled for Sundays were cancelled over the last six months.
Council Leader, Cllr Phil Riley, who is also a member of the Transport for the North Board, has since written to Northern and issued the following statement:
“It is completely unacceptable that Blackburn and other northern communities continue to suffer from this shocking and unacceptable level of Sunday cancellations.
“It is extremely concerning that Blackburn, one of the UKs busiest stations, has almost half of the scheduled services cancelled.
“Our residents rely on these services for work, family commitments, and leisure, and the constant disruptions are damaging our local economy.
“The failure to provide reliable Sunday services is undermining our efforts to build a stronger, more connected region.
“I have called for immediate action from Northern to resolve this crisis and restore the trust of passengers.”
The Council leader said that Northern’s ongoing cancellations are in direct conflict with national and regional efforts to promote sustainable travel and improve public transport links in the North.
He has now requested an urgent meeting with Northern to seek accountability and improvements.
Cllr Riley added: “I understand that the UK’s rail networks are currently facing significant challenges, including funding issues, staff shortages and strikes.
“However, it is imperative that Northern takes swift and effective action to address the situation.
“Reliable public transport is vital to Blackburn’s future growth, and we cannot allow our residents to be continually let down by poor service.
“I have asked Northern to deliver an urgent recovery plan, improve service reliability, and communicate clearly with the public about what is being done to address these failures.”
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