WCML diversions over the S&C

I read recently in the Settle local magazine that starting in January 2026 up to 8 return paths would be created between Preston and Carlisle, via Blackburn, Cltheroe and the S&C, to be used when the WCML was closed for upgrades. I was thinking maybe Pendolino's dragged by 57's, but today a pair of Avanti 805's came up from Oxley to Preston on electric, then reversed and came up the S&C. Today's working was heading back via the WCML, but tomorrow there is another on RTT both ways over the S&C. Driver training has started I presume.
Given the increasing amount of stone traffic, with the new connection at Horton, the S&C is going to be very busy at times. I would think that they would want to send some WCML freights up here too. And to think they wanted to close it!!
The 805's are pictured passing Settle Junction at lunchtime today.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/90397953@N02/54733568078/in/photostream/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/90397953@N02/54733582874/in/photostream/

 

I thought the DfT preferred bustitution to diverts, as it costs money to train the drivers to learn the route.
Maybe some positive change in strategy country wide?

 

There may be some other factors at work here, as there are also a lot of closures planned on the M6 for both road and rail bridge replacements, plus they would need an awful lot of buses. A pair of 805's is about 600 seats, that's 12 buses, but I agree that this might be a welcome strategy change, made easier by the dual mode trains.

 

Route conductors being used rather than training up Avanti drivers - that would be far to sensible!