Franchising moves forward

29 October 2013

Passenger Focus continues to press for passenger aspirations to be delivered in franchise agreements. 

Our Passenger Power! agenda has been influential in setting the context for improved engagement and dialogue.  We continue to make representations to the Department for Transport (DfT) and bidders in relation to each individual franchise.

A revised timetable for the franchising programme has been drawn up following the Brown review.  The DfT has also established a new organisational and project management structure.

Invitations to Tender (ITTs) were published for the Essex Thameside and the combined Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern franchises.  A prospectus for potential bidders for the East Coast franchise has also been published.  

Several Direct Awards extending the term of operation of existing operators have been announced. More agreements are in negotiation.

Details of Passenger Focus input to specific franchises can be found in the franchising section of the website.

All DfT documents relating to franchising since March 2013 can be located from:

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-transport/series/rail-franchising