East Midlands and Cross Country franchise announcements

07 June 2018

The Department for Transport is running a consultation to select the next operator for the Cross Country franchise.

Transport Focus passenger director David Sidebottom, said:

“Passengers using Cross Country tell us that their top priorities for improvement are the ability to get a seat on frequent, punctual services that provide better value for money.

“Free reliable Wi-Fi will also make for a more productive and enjoyable journey.

“It is important that passengers have their say on the issues raised and that this feedback helps create new services which better meet passengers’ needs.”

Background

Transport Focus’s Cross Country passenger priorities research can be found here.

East Midlands franchise invitation to tender

Commenting on the East Midlands franchise invitation to tender, Transport Focus passenger director David Sidebottom, said:

“East Midlands Trains passengers have a dependable service that delivers the basics well.

“Passengers have seen what other train companies provide, which has raised their expectations. They want more modern trains, with free Wi-Fi and power sockets as standard, and improvements to catering and toilet facilities on the train.

“The competition for the next franchise must seize the opportunity to provide an outstanding journey for rail passengers in the East Midlands.”

Background

Publication of the invitation to tender is an important step in selecting the next operator for the franchise. It sets out the guidelines for bidders to develop proposals for better journeys for passengers.

Transport Focus’s East Midlands passenger priorities research can be found here.