(27 Jul 2015, 8:20 pm)Busman69 wrote That's quite worrying, as it seems that would be a direct barrier to any competition, and being detrimental to the consumer. Is there not a competition regulator for these things, to stop one service creating a monopoly.

You would think so.

But look at who operates on the ECML, WCML and Midland Mainline and their shareholders.
Then look at who operates coach services between Scotland and England down both sides of the country and who flies from Edinburgh to London.
There is a common theme and the two dominant figures both have beards

The operators into London from the home counties are also worth looking at.
The main player, have their registered office on Grey St.

The open market has failed the consumer.