East Midlands Railway (EMR) will resume some previously cancelled Intercity services on the Sheffield and Nottingham routes beginning August 31, 2026, following a reduced timetable introduced on July 20, 2026, due to reliability problems with its new Aurora (Class 810) trains.
Service Levels and Timetable Restorations
EMR announced on August 12, 2026, that Intercity operations would increase from 87% to 92% of the full planned timetable. The operator confirmed it will restore five weekday and three weekend services on the Sheffield route and three weekday alongside one weekend service on the Nottingham route. The Aurora trains were initially introduced in December 2025, following a three-year
delay.
Train Reliability and Technical Challenges
The reduced timetable results from persistent issues affecting both the new Class 810 fleet and the older Class 222 trains, including faults with toilets, air conditioning, and catering systems. Some faults require an Aux Off / Aux On reset to restore functionality, a process highlighted by the RMT union, which claims that trains entering service may operate without active safety systems after such resets. EMR disputes claims that the Class 810 fleet fails safety standards.
Official Responses from EMR and Hitachi Rail
Neil Grabham, EMR’s interim managing director, said the reduced timetable was a difficult but necessary measure to provide consistent service while addressing fleet challenges
in cooperation with Hitachi Rail and Rock Rail. He noted that the timetable adjustments have delivered operational stability. A Hitachi Rail spokesperson stated that their agreed action plan with EMR is progressing, with increased maintenance on Class 222 units and investments at Long Marston Innovation Centre to support modifications and testing of Class 810 trains.
Passenger Impact and Industrial Relations
The reinstatement of priority services starting August 31 aims to improve service availability for passengers on the Midland Main Line, especially those affected on the Sheffield and Nottingham routes. The reduced timetable introduced in July led to fewer short-notice cancellations and greater reliability. The RMT
union has protested over safety concerns, organizing strikes in early August. EMR and Hitachi remain engaged in delivering further fleet improvements.
