Bid to run new trains on West Coast Mainline refused

The Office of Rail and Road has rejected proposals by Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway to run new train services connecting London with Blackpool, Wrexham, and Rochdale.

According to the regulator, the West Coast Main Line is currently operating under significant pressure, and introducing additional trains would likely worsen delays and increase cancellations for existing passengers.

Related summaries

BusinessmarketsOct 8, 2026

Plans to shut Marston's Brewery in Burton revealed by Carlsberg

Carlsberg Britvic has announced proposals to close the historic Marston's Brewery in Burton-upon-Trent by next summer. The planned closure, which also affects the site's primary logistics operation, puts approximately 310 jobs at risk. The company attributes the decision to a stark decline in UK cask ale volumes, which have halved over the past decade. While priority brands like Hobgoblin will be retained, their future brewing locations remain uncertain.

Marston's Brewery Carlsberg Britvic Burton-upon-Trent Beer Business

BusinessstartupsOct 8, 2026

Gary Vaynerchuk Bets Big on VeeFriends Collectibles Brand

Serial entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk is focusing his efforts on his latest venture, VeeFriends, calling it potentially the biggest business of his life. Unlike his previous impersonal enterprises, VeeFriends is a passion project deeply rooted in childhood dreams. The brand features a vast storytelling universe with over 280 hand-drawn characters designed to promote kindness and life lessons. Blending elements of Pokémon and Sesame Street, the intellectual property spans comics, trading cards, and entertainment content.

Gary Vaynerchuk VeeFriends Collectibles Entrepreneurship Intellectual Property

BusinessmarketsOct 8, 2026

Derry firm becomes top UK car park operator after buying NCP

A Londonderry-based company, the Martin Group, has successfully acquired NCP out of administration, transforming into one of the largest car park operators in the United Kingdom. The high-profile transaction ensures that the majority of NCP's 145 sites will continue operating, safeguarding hundreds of jobs following a tumultuous period of financial collapse for the parking giant. NCP had suffered from declining performance, high debt levels, and rigid long-term property leases, leading to its collapse in March 2026. However, administrators PwC confirmed that the new deal with the Martin Group provides a secure path forward for both employees and creditors, maintaining critical urban infrastructure across British towns and cities.

NCP Martin Group Business Acquisitions UK economy

Bid to run new trains on West Coast Mainline refused

Key Takeaways

Recommended for you