Overview
- Avanti West Coast is operating roughly two-hourly non-stop shuttle services via the Settle–Carlisle route using Class 805 Evero bi-mode trains in diesel mode.
- From January 1 to 5 trains run between Wigan North Western and Carlisle due to an extra blockage south of Preston, then operate to and from Preston through January 15 with some extensions to Crewe and the West Midlands.
- The diversion sends trains through East Lancashire to Blackburn and up the Clitheroe branch to join at Hellifield, with no intermediate station stops scheduled.
- Passengers are advised to use the East Coast Main Line for trips from Birmingham, Manchester and London to Carlisle or Scotland, and to use rail replacement buses for Lancaster, Oxenholme and Penrith.
- The Settle–Carlisle operation follows months of planning, with Network Rail saying the new Clifton Bridge will deliver safer, more reliable journeys for up to 120 years.