Avanti West Coast Diverts Services Through Historic Settle-Carlisle Line During Major Engineering Works

Introduction: Historic Railway Route Returns to Intercity Service

Avanti West Coast has begun operating trains on the historic Settle-Carlisle Line as part of a major engineering diversion that marks a significant moment for UK rail travel. The operator started running trains on the historic route to keep customers moving across the North West, with the 07.54 departure on 1 January 2026 from Wigan to Carlisle being the first intercity passenger service to use the 73-mile-long railway in over 10 years. This strategic move ensures passengers can continue travelling by rail while essential infrastructure work takes place on the West Coast Main Line.

Engineering Works and Bridge Replacement Project

The line is being used as a diversionary route until 15 January while the West Coast Main Line is blocked between Preston and Carlisle, as Network Rail replaces Clifton Bridge, which takes the railway over the M6 motorway near Penrith in Cumbria. The £60 million, two-week replacement of Clifton Bridge represents a crucial investment in the UK’s rail infrastructure, addressing the limitations of the 60-year-old structure that currently restricts train movements.

Innovative Use of New Fleet Technology

Avanti West Coast is running a shuttle service, using their bi-mode Class 805 Evero trains, roughly every two hours non-stop via the Settle to Carlisle route. These trains are able to run on electric or diesel power, therefore with no overhead power wires on the Settle to Carlisle line, the operator is utilising the diesel capability of its new fleet to keep customers moving during the engineering works. The Class 805 Evero fleet was introduced in June 2024 and represents a significant investment in sustainable rail travel.

Conclusion: Balancing Heritage and Modern Infrastructure

This diversion demonstrates the importance of maintaining flexible rail infrastructure whilst undertaking essential modernisation work. Passengers benefit from continued rail connectivity whilst experiencing one of Britain’s most scenic railway routes, renowned for its stunning countryside views across the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines. The successful implementation of this diversion, following months of planning between Avanti West Coast and Network Rail, sets a precedent for future engineering works on the West Coast Main Line. For travellers, this temporary change offers both practical connectivity and a unique journey through Britain’s railway heritage, whilst ensuring the long-term reliability of essential rail infrastructure between England and Scotland.