2002-11-12 Future for Island Line announced (Strategic Rail Authority)

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date 1 April 2003
source Strategic Rail Authority
type Press release

The Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) announced today that three parties have
qualified as bidders for the new Greater Anglia franchise, under the terms of
the new franchise policy published last Autumn.

The parties are: Arriva Trains Ltd; GB Railways Plc; National
Express Group PLC

The SRA's new franchising policy marks a radical departure for
passengers and operators. It provides train companies with clear
guidelines and incentives on customer service and on business
priorities.

The new franchise will incorporate existing Anglia Railways, Great
Eastern and West Anglia rail services after the end of current
franchises in 2004, in line with the SRA's policy of one operator for
major London termini.

The franchise will be of up to ten years' duration, depending on final
bids.

In the next stage of the franchising process, the SRA will invite the
three parties to submit detailed bids.

The SRA expects to announce a preferred bidder in Spring 2004.

Richard Bowker, SRA Chairman, said:

"The essence of the new franchise policy is to give greater clarity and
certainty to bidders about what we expect on behalf of passengers. The
qualification threshold was set at a very demanding level indeed to ensure the
best possible competition on behalf of passengers and taxpayers. This
franchising revolution is a very real step towards the industry presenting itself
as fit for purpose to passengers and investors."

Notes to Editors
1. The Greater Anglia franchise will combine the existing Anglia and
Great Eastern franchises, and the West Anglia (Liverpool Street)
services from the WAGN franchise (including Stansted Express). The
new franchise will achieve passenger service and operational benefits
through combining all Liverpool Street services, but the successful
operator will also be required to provide a separate management focus
for local East Anglia services.
2. All three current franchises (Anglia Railways, Great Eastern and West
Anglia) are due to expire on 31 March 2004.
3. Separate arrangements will be made in relation to Great Northern
services which are currently part of the WAGN franchise. Options for
the future of Great Northern services are currently being considered.
For further details contact the Department

Railhub Archive ::: 2003-04-01 SRA-001