House of Commons · Westminster Hall
15 July 2025 · 16 other contributors · 11,177 words
Opened by Connor Naismith Lab Crewe and Nantwich
Responding minister: Lilian Greenwood
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Connor Naismith raised concerns about west coast main line in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
Connor Naismith asks that the Government address the issues affecting the west coast main line and ensure better connectivity within Cheshire to support local transport options.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The west coast main line faces critical problems, including daily disruptions affecting MPs and constituents. It serves more than 75 million passengers a year, with over 40% of the UK’s rail freight moving along it, making it one of the busiest mixed-use railways in Europe. However, it lacks a strategic vision or plan for future capacity shortages.
Called for realistic solutions from Ministers to address capacity problems caused by HS2.
Brandreth emphasised the need to improve capacity on the west coast main line as well as local transport options within Cheshire to help constituents benefit from national rail links.
Discussed Blackpool’s reliance on rail services, highlighting its impact on tourism and local economy; stressed the importance of reliable train services to prevent a brain drain and support young talent in Blackpool.
Expressed gratitude for contributions and highlighted structural issues with stations and rail lines, urging the Minister to factor in suggested solutions.
The hon. Member for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner highlighted the importance of integrating the line with population centres, economic development areas, and other transport nodes along its route. He also emphasised the need to improve connectivity in the north and midlands to take some development pressure off London.
Gardner raised concerns about direct services from Stoke-on-Trent to London and Manchester, which were threatened by previous HS2 plans.
The hon. Member for Blackley and Middleton South raised concerns about capacity increases and criticised Avanti West Coast for taking millions of pounds out of the public purse.
Platt agreed that the common misconception is that HS2 is about faster train journeys to London, when it was actually about capacity issues. She also pointed out that scrapping phases 2a and 2b has robbed northern regions of improvements.
Although he did not speak due to losing his voice, the hon. Member is expected to contribute with great knowledge and expertise on another occasion.
The service of Avanti West Coast is not good enough, with only 41.6% of trains being on time and a total of £19.1 million in shareholder dividends paid over the last two years.
Highlighted the critical role of HS2 in relieving west coast main line pressure and need for remodelling at Crewe. Emphasised the importance of infrastructure and train operation partnership.
She highlighted that HS2 was meant to relieve capacity but has instead caused delays and disruption, leaving residents in expanding villages without proper service.
The constituents of Warrington South ask for reliable trains, available seats, comfortable journeys without standing room only and functional air conditioning on carriages. Agreed with the need for more transparency and delivery of promises.
Explained the Government's approach to HS2 and capacity issues on the west coast main line, including the need for rail enhancements and Network Rail's renewal programme.
Farron pointed out that the least reliable railway stations are located north of Preston due to issues with rail track maintenance and investment, calling for more Government prioritisation in this area.
The hon. Member for Aldridge-Brownhills acknowledges the debate on connectivity and infrastructure improvements, specifically mentioning support for the midlands rail hub project. Asked about improving capacity on open access lines.
Government Response
Lilian GreenwoodThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport
The Minister welcomed the debate on the future of the west coast main line, calling it a route that has long served as the backbone of connectivity between London and northern regions. She acknowledged concerns raised about future capacity on the line and expressed appreciation for Members' contributions. Acknowledged the challenges and expressed support for improvements at Crewe station and beyond. Announced a £270 million programme for essential renewals over the next few years, and emphasized ongoing work on an integrated national transport strategy.