Included in the current track access application from GWR is a plan to run a Class 387 empty from Didcot each evening to pick up a passenger working to Bristol Parkway. The unit then goes to Swindon Cocklebury sidings for overnight stabling but will run in service on event days.
It appears to run four minutes behind an existing service to Bristol Temple Meads and won't connect into anything particularly useful at Bristol Parkway but seems to help with capacity if an event occurs.
The use of 387s to Cardiff for event workings has been noted in previous threads - eg this one https://www.railforums.co.uk/threads/gwr-387’s-to-cardiff.166316/ and this seems to be the next step in that plan.
To facilitate the operation of the new Cardiff Central to Bristol Parkway service, the following right is requested:
Additional SX service from Cardiff-Swindon operated by Class 387. The service is proposed to operate a daily ecs move from Didcot Parkway-Cardiff Central and a passenger working from Cardiff to Bristol Parkway, before running empty to Swindon.
• 3L94 19+28 Didcot-Cardiff Central
• 1L94 22:04 Cardiff-Bristol Parkway calling at Newport.
• 5L94 22+54 Bristol Parkway-Swindon Cocklebury.
The purpose of the train is to provide Class 387 route and traction retention and capability for special events. Should a special event be taking place at Cardiff the passenger service will be extended to Swindon (under existing relief train right) and may be retimed. In many weeks there will be an engineering possession between Wootton Bassett and Westerleigh Jn which will preclude the above services operating. In that eventuality given there is a later service from Cardiff, no rail replacement services will be operated.
This service will be performed by a Class 387 which will provide route and traction retention for this Class. Additionally, the service will provide passenger benefit by providing additional capacity and travel opportunities for special events occurring in Cardiff. This will benefit passengers by reducing overcrowding.
It appears to run four minutes behind an existing service to Bristol Temple Meads and won't connect into anything particularly useful at Bristol Parkway but seems to help with capacity if an event occurs.
The use of 387s to Cardiff for event workings has been noted in previous threads - eg this one https://www.railforums.co.uk/threads/gwr-387’s-to-cardiff.166316/ and this seems to be the next step in that plan.
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