Train operators face possible fine over passenger information in lead-up to May timetable revamp
Train operators Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) and Northern could be fined if an investigation by the rail regulator discovers that they breached their licence obligation to provide people with all possible information ahead of the timetable disruption in May.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has already conducted an inquiry into the chaos that hit passengers from May last year, when the timetable was overhauled to increase capacity and the frequency of trains.
The inquiry concluded that the government, the rail operators and Network Rail, which owns the tracks, were all to blame, and that "no-one took charge" for the chaos.
Now the ORR is investigating whether GTR and Northern breached a condition which requires train companies to provide “appropriate, accurate and timely information to enable railway passengers and prospective passengers to plan and make their journeys with a reasonable degree of assurance, including when there is disruption".
The regulator said it hopes to finish its investigation by November. It said that the opening of an investigation does not imply it has made any findings about non-compliance.
A GTR spokesperson said: "We will cooperate fully with the ORR's investigation."
Northern has been contacted for comment.
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