East Midlands railway franchise awarded to Abellio

10 April 2019

Commenting on the announcement that Abellio chosen to run the East Midlands railway franchise, Anthony Smith, chief executive of independent watchdog Transport Focus, said:

“Passengers across the East Midlands network told Transport Focus that their key priorities for improvement are frequent, punctual and reliable services, with more modern trains with free Wi-Fi and power sockets as standard along with better catering and toilet facilities on the train.

“It is good to see efforts to meet these aspirations at the heart of the new franchise with new trains, more seats and services, and actions to improve the passenger experience with free wi-fi on trains and at stations.

“It is good news that Delay Repay compensation will kick in at 15 minutes and that improved ticket deals will offer part-time workers better value for money services.

“Abellio East Midlands now has an unrivalled opportunity to provide outstanding journeys and customer service for rail passengers in the region.”

 

Background

In Transport Focus’s last National Rail Passenger Survey 84 per cent of East Midlands Trains’ passengers were satisfied overall with their service, with only 44 per cent satisfied with value for money.

Transport Focus East Midlands Trains’ passenger research.