Jacobite 2026

I don't think this conflicts with what WCR has said.

WCR has conceded the need for CDL across the whole Mk. 1 fleet.
WCR has formally approached ORR (i.e. submitted application) for R5 exemption while the fleet is being fitted. (This only covers vehicles without CDL)
WCR working on timeline for complete CDL fitment.
No timeline agreed with ORR yet.
ORR has not (yet) issued an exemption.

It has not been officially confirmed, but the evidence suggests WCR has begun to fit Mk. 1s with CDL.

 

The WC statement appears to have been reissued today https://westcoastrailways.co.uk/news/the-jacobite-2026-season-update
It doesn't now mention "reaching an agreement with ORR" but does say "we .... are going to install Central Door Locking (CDL) systems across our entire fleet of Mark 1 carriages used on the mainline."

 

Better late than never. Around 10 years too late.

 

I take that to mean there isn't necessarily going to be an R5 exemption any time soon, if ever, and the constraining factor may be having the first set ready to go.
The other "issue" with running the Jacobite with Mk2s is locomotive availability, given that 44871 and/or 45407 have other commitments in coming weeks. Having at least one Mk1 set available for the Jacobite presumably opens up other possibilities. How near is the K1 ready to completing its overhaul?