(25 Jan 2016, 4:59 pm)South Tyne Lad wrote Though competition is one of the things about Privatisation, Train Paths on Very busy routes can affect how many operators can operate services with Network Rail and the DFT having the power to Truncate services at for example Derby instead of Sheffield.
In the Network Rail ECML RUS Document, It suggests that to get 3x VTEC and 2x TPE on the ECML by 2019, Would require the loss of the Plymouth XC Service between Leeds and Newcastle leaving only 1x Crosscountry service a hour between York and Newcastle ( The Reading Service ) Though if the remaining Freight Path between Northallerton and Newcastle is Compromised, Then the Plymouth XC can still run to Newcastle though will make XC loose competition ( Albeit both will HAVE to terminate at Central Station see below )
On the section between Newcastle and Edinburgh, By 2019 2x VTEC a Hour, 1x TPE and 1x Local or Semi Fast Path ( Proposed Scotrail Service ) a 1x class 4 or 6 Freight Path and the 1x Northern Morpeth Service can be accommodated
XC are not allowed to run through to Edinburgh and beyond by 2019 to make way for 2x VTEC and 1x TPE, XC will loose all competition on this Section.
And with 3x VTEC and 2x TPE confirmed between Newcastle and York, 1x XC will have to be lost from this section.
Be expected to hear this in the news in the next few years.
EDIT : on both sections 1x Open Access path is also included
The very flaw in the privatisation aids competition argument.
If paths don't exist, then neither can competition or choice.
Whilst improved signalling may increase capacity, there is still a limit.
Then there is the case of privatisation, leading to a monopoly or domination by one toc in some areas - such as Arriva/Db in the North East or Go ahead on London commuter routes.