Harry Potter train season delayed amid safety dispute, sparking tourism fears
The Jacobite steam train, a prominent attraction known for its role as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films, has announced a delay to the commencement of its 2024 season. Operators West Coast Railways (WCR) are currently awaiting a decision from the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) regarding a safety exemption required to utilise its popular Mark 1 carriages.
Economic Concerns Mount in West Highlands
The uncertainty surrounding the Jacobite's operational start has triggered alarm among local businesses. The West Highland Chamber, a key business group, has labelled the train journey a "vital economic engine" for the region. Reports are already emerging of visitors cancelling accommodation bookings due to the lack of clarity, underscoring the immediate economic repercussions.
WCR has not yet commenced ticket sales or set a definitive start date for the season, which historically begins in March or April. The company has been in a protracted dispute with the ORR concerning the installation of central locking on its Mark 1 carriages to prevent doors from being opened while the train is in motion. WCR's boss, James Shuttleworth, confirmed the system would be installed but has sought a temporary exemption, citing past successes with manual door locking by stewards.
Shuttleworth explained that while more modern Mark 2 carriages, equipped with central locking, were used in previous seasons, a decision was made not to deploy them this year due to reduced capacity and the necessity for a diesel locomotive to power air conditioning. He highlighted customer preference for the Mark 1 carriages and the financial implications of using the alternative rolling stock.
The ORR has confirmed that WCR's application for an exemption is currently under review, with no agreement yet reached. The West Highland Chamber expressed its hope for collaborative efforts with WCR to mitigate the impact of the delay on the local hospitality and retail sectors.
