Train cancellations unacceptable

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 8th Feb 2006

Welsh Liberal Democrat transport spokesperson, Kirsty Williams, has blasted the poor performance of Wales' main franchise holders - Arriva Trains Wales. Questions tabled by Liberal Democrats in Westminster have revealed that Arriva cancelled over 10,000 train services last year - nearly one in every 20 trains planned.

Kirsty Williams AM at Train Station with Local Resident

Ms Williams said: "There is a huge body of anecdotal evidence as to the poor performance on these services, but I must admit that I was shocked at the extent of the problem that these figures reveal. Of the 22 train operating companies listed, only one had a higher cancellation rate.

"This is further evidence of the urgent need for updated rolling stock in Wales - approximately half of the cancellations were as a result of breakdowns. Despite the iconic status of excuses like 'leaves on the line' and 'the wrong kind of snow', only a fraction of cancellations could be blamed on the weather. I will continue to lobby for improved rolling stock, and hope that Arriva will do all it can to ensure this unacceptable disruption to thousands of Welsh passengers is reduced."

Research by the Liberal Democrats revealed:

10,898 of the 244,869 trains planned by Arriva Trains Wales (4.5%) were cancelled. Only Gatwick Express had a higher cancellation rate (5.7%).

4,593 services were cancelled due to breakdowns. Only Virgin Cross Country had a higher rate of breakdowns (2.4%). 1,916 services were cancelled due to problems caused by Network Rail and in 633 cases the weather was to blame.