Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander apologized for unacceptable service levels on East Midlands Railway (EMR), citing ongoing problems with the new Aurora (Class 810) fleet. She called for improvements before EMR is renationalised by March 2027.
Aurora Fleet Issues Trigger Delays and Strike Action
The Aurora trains, manufactured and maintained by Hitachi Rail, entered service in December 2025 but have faced persistent reliability issues. These problems caused months of delays, cancellations, and overcrowding across EMR routes including services between Derby and London St Pancras. The operational difficulties led to strike threats and a planned 24-hour walkout by RMT union members on 16 and 17 September 2026, which was subsequently
canceled after talks.
Despite the strike cancellation, RMT members continue to conduct “action short of strike,” creating risks of short-notice train alterations and cancellations.
Reduced Timetable and Gradual Restoration of Service
EMR temporarily cut its Intercity timetable to 87% capacity in July 2026 due to Aurora fleet maintenance and reliability challenges, resulting in fewer services and carriages. This reduction led to passenger delays and overcrowded trains on EMR routes serving London St Pancras.
After operational improvements, EMR raised service levels to 92% on 1 September 2026. It expects to operate at 96% capacity starting 19 October 2026.
Renationalisation Plans and Cost Savings
The UK government plans to bring EMR under public ownership
by March 2027, with the transfer process eligible to begin from the contract core term expiry date this upcoming Sunday. Renationalisation aims to improve rail infrastructure, reduce delays, and enhance passenger experience.
EMR is among several rail operators moving to public ownership, alongside Great Anglia and South Western Railway. Avanti West Coast services are also scheduled for nationalisation from March 2027. The government expects to save £150 million annually by ending payments to private train operators.
Passenger Impact and Official Statements on Service Quality
Passengers have experienced delays, cancellations, and overcrowding throughout summer 2026 due to Aurora fleet problems and necessary timetable reductions. Despite improvements, ongoing union actions
may cause further short-notice service changes.
Alexander said of the service issues: “I recognise people have received an unacceptable service this summer and I apologise for that. It’s not good enough.” She added renationalisation is “not going to be a silver bullet that transforms things overnight,” emphasizing the need for time and investment in infrastructure and rolling stock.
An EMR spokesperson acknowledged the three-year delay in train delivery and the impact of fleet performance on service consistency. The spokesperson said EMR is working closely with Hitachi Rail and the Department for Transport to support further timetable improvements and apologized for
the disruption caused.
