Originally Posted by
visualAd
I have heard of train operating companies do similar things when they cannot get permission from the government to close a route. They will reduce the service frequency and timings to make it very difficult for commuters to use and then re-apply to close the route down a few years later claiming lack of passenger numbers. I think the Primrose Hill Station close to where I live suffered a similar fate.
It's not quite the same. In fact, closing a station is very expensive and politically unpalatable thanks to provisions in the Transport Act 1962. Therefore, to prevent formal closure (expensive), a token service of one train a week (not expensive) or similar is implemented. A parallel with GF could only be drawn if the government mandated BA must provide a GF service every day. BA could open it between 2300 and 2330 and be abiding with the obligation despite it having no practical benefit.
I think it is premature to read anything into the GF restrictions other than it being a measure to save money, and to send the message that LGW is not a premium hub.