Jacobite 2026

https://www.scotsman.com/news/trans...-william-mallaig-line-two-months-late-8651844

"Monday’s service is believed to have been reserved for passengers pre-booked with tour operators, with other budding travellers asked to register on the company’s website for updates.

The start of trips appears to mark a U-turn by WCR, which had suggested it would keep Jacobite services on hold until a decision was made by the rail regulator ...."

 

That may appear to be the case but don't forget that in PR world West Coast are "working with the ORR towards a solution", "have reached an agreement with the ORR", "working in partnership with the rail regulator", "co-operating with the authorities" and "resolving issues together". The only minor flaw seems to be that the ORR haven't been given the same script.

So not really a U-turn. More a case of ever decreasing circles

 

The only conclusion one can really draw from the recent developments is that there is a commercial basis for resuming the trains. In that sense WC seem to have found a way to operate which alleviates the previous cost pressures that made the train unviable.
Beyond that it's still wait and see.

 

I think the fact that WC have fitted more early MK2 stock with CDL and sent a full rake to Scotland shows great progress and a clear intention. I also think that it’s a good train to send as it’s air only so works well with the 5s. I’m glad to seee the Jacobite working again, and long may it continue.

 

It is a welcome development, no doubt about that, particularly as it no longer seems the question of an exemption being issued is a barrier to the operation.