Words in [single square brackets] included hyperlinks in the original document
Words in [[double square brackets]] are editorial additions or corrections
Words in [[[triple square brackets]]] indicate embedded images or graphics in the original document. (These are not usually archived unless they contain significant additional information.)
The Strategic Rail Authority stated today that its evaluation of the latest proposals for the replacement franchise for the East Coast Main Line had not yet resolved all areas of concern.
Specific issues outstanding include technical feasibility and value for money, financial risk and the extent to which proposals are deliverable while maintaining and improving services on this key long distance route. The two proposals are from GNER Holdings and Virgin Stagecoach.
The SRA is completing a detailed examination of both proposals before a final decision is submitted to the Government returned early in June. The replacement East Coast Main Line franchise is planned to be of 20 year duration and is as significant to Britain's rail system as the West Coast Main Line franchise, held by Virgin Trains.
The final decision on the preferred bidder is not expected to affect progress on the upgrade of the East Coast Main Line infrastructure which, as already announced, will be a joint venture led by the SRA with Railtrack, the new franchise operator for the route when selected, and other private sector investors. Work on the upgrade is well under way.
Railnews Archive ::: 2001-05-09 SRA-001
related documents
2002-01-16 Byers welcomes East Coast deal (Department of Transport, Local Government and the Regions)
2002-01-16 Byers welcomes East Coast deal (Department of Transport, Local Government and the Regions)