Graham is calling for common sense and better communication from Northern after trains missed scheduled stops at Beverley because of leaves on the line.
Graham wants a clear explanation of why stops have been removed, practical alternatives for passengers and a plan for restoring normal services. He is also asking what Northern and Network Rail did to prepare for the autumn leaf fall.
The BBC reported disruption to services between Scarborough, Bridlington and Hull, with stops omitted at Beverley, Cottingham and Driffield.
Northern said compressed leaves had made the rails slippery and temporary timetable changes were needed to keep trains running safely and limit disruption to the wider network. It said normal services would return when safe.
Graham’s intervention follows his work pressing for repairs to Beverley station’s long-closed toilets. He says passengers should be able to expect the basics: decent facilities, reliable services and clear information when things go wrong.
Graham said:
“Can we have a bit of common sense here? My constituents need to be able to get to and from work.
“People in East Yorkshire aren’t the sort to complain about the weather or the changing seasons. But I am prepared to complain on their behalf, and I won’t let Northern think this is OK.
“People in Beverley depend on these trains to get to work, see family and attend medical appointments. Removing their stop has real consequences. Beverley should not be left feeling second best.
“We all understand that safety comes first. But passengers deserve to know why their stops are being removed, what alternatives they have and when they can expect their service back. If Northern cannot give a date, it should explain what needs to happen first and keep people updated.
“Leaves fall every autumn. Northern and Network Rail need to explain what preparation they made and what more they can do to keep services running safely. Removing stops must not become the easy option.
“I’ll be pressing Northern for clear answers, proper passenger information and a plan for restoring normal services.”
