[AMcWhirter]

Sheffield might regain its direct rail link to London Kings Cross.

Many decades ago Sheffield used to have a prestigious Master Cutler train which operated to London Kings Cross via the ECML (East Coast Mainline). At one time I understand this was a Pullman train.

Now First Group will be applying to regulator ORR to start an open access service to London Kings Cross – see link below.

In recent years open access firms have competed with LNER by serving areas which the latter has neglected.

This example would see First Group operate from Sheffield via a 20 or so mile regional line to join the ECML at Retford from where it would continue to Kings Cross.

Says rail journalist Ben Jones, “Very interesting move. Huge catchment area to the East of Sheffield. This area is currently poorly served and tends to gravitate towards Doncaster [and the available services to Kings Cross].

Right now EMR is the only Sheffield-London train operator and takes the MML (Midland Mainline) to StPancras.

https://www.firstgroupplc.com/news-and-media/latest-news/2024/firstgroup-applies-to-run-new-london-to-sheffield-rail-service.aspx

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