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 Department for Transport today confirmed that Central Trains' franchise will be extended from 01 April 2006 to 11 November 2007.
New terms have been introduced to encourage further improvements in performance. The current timetable and level of services will be maintained.
The extension helps facilitate the re-mapping of franchises in the Midlands, which was announced by DfT in October 2005. Three new franchises - East Midlands, West Midlands and Cross Country - will replace the current four franchises operated by Central Trains, Silverlink, Virgin Cross Country and Midland Mainline.
Remapping existing franchises will facilitate closer working between track and train to improve efficiency and performance. The extension of the contract will help to align the end dates of the four existing franchises.
Rail Minister Derek Twigg said:
"This agreement means that existing services will continue until November 2007, with an emphasis on building on recent performance improvements.
"It means that we can continue with our plans for the new franchises, which will deliver better services for passengers."
Discussions are taking place with other franchisees to enable the transition to the new franchises. DfT is also continuing work on the detailed specification for the new franchises, which will be consulted upon in due course. We expect to announce the franchise awards in Summer 2007.
Notes to editors
1. Central Trains is owned by the National Express Group. It provides local services through the East and West Midlands and long distance services from the Midlands to South Wales, the North West, East Anglia and the East Coast.
2. The original seven year Central Trains franchise was awarded in March 1997.
3. The new Franchise Agreement will be placed on the public register at a future date
Public Enquiries: 020 7944 8300 Department for Transport Website: http://www.dft.gov.uk
Railnews Archive ::: 2006-03-31 DfT-002
related documents
2006-02-14 Mayor welcomes TfL control of first London passenger rail services (Transport for London)
2006-02-14 Mayor welcomes TfL control of first London passenger rail services (Transport for London)