The 17:02 runs for the last time on 8th December (I hate to say that - would prefer to say "last time for the moment" but it's going to be hard work to get it back and there's a question mark over whether we could) and there's a end of term don't-care attitude on the part of the operator. "It's the easiest train to replace by a bus" they say and, indeed, they're now VERY effiicient in having a bus to hand ... almost as if it's on hand just-in-case every day.
Arguably, the 18:09 also runs for the last time on 8th December. In my opinion, the new train one hour later will be a different service, servinging a different (an as yet unidentitified) market. Perhaps Melksham is to become a London dormitary town, with commuters leaving on the 07:17 each morning at getting back at 19:07?
Perhaps the frequent cancellation of the 18:09 is an indication that First, too, see the 19:07 as a new market, and they are 'end-of-term' on the 18:09, frankly not caring whether or not they upset their soon-to-be-ex customers. After all, they're in it to make money and not to provide a service.
Here are some interesting quotes from Wiltshire County Council's response to the Great Western Main Line Route Utilisation Strategy :
"The SRA approach to the delivery of rail services places a very high emphasis on long distance London-based trips. The County Council considers that a more balanced approach should be adopted that respects the national planning policy objectives to reduce travel and the need to travel (especially by car), which, in the context of the RUS, means that the ability to make fast, long-distance journeys should not be favoured over the needs of local travellers."
"It is noted (Table 3.2) that the majority (71%) of journeys by rail are under 50 miles, and that in terms of the Governments accessibility objectives, it is the journey (linking origin and destination) and not its length that is the most appropriate consideration. Therefore, it is essential that emphasis is placed on the improvement of rail services in the region that serve to facilitate local, not just long distance movement."
"Swindon-Westbury (-Southampton)
The draft RUS makes no mention of this service.
As contained in its Local Transport Plan, Wiltshire is seeking an improved service (the target is hourly) on the Swindon-Westbury (via Melksham) line. Linked to this is a proposal to relocate Melksham station from its current constrained site to a new location near commercial development."
The only mention of Melksham in the final RUS was to reject re-location of the station.
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