UK: South Western Franchise Competition Shortlist Announced

Image courtesy of Network Rail

The UK Department for Transport has released details of the two train operating companies which have ben shortlisted to win the South Western Franchise  after expressions of interest.

First South Western Trains Limited or Stagecoach South West Limited will take over the franchise from South West Trains in June 2017. The route extends across urban, suburban and regional lines, as well as the long-distance service routes between London Waterloo, Reading, Bristol, Exeter, Weymouth, and Portsmouth and the Island Line on the Isle of Wight. The winner will have to make the case for how they will best deliver improved service for passengers.

Rail Minister Claire Perry said:

“The South Western franchise has some of the busiest routes in the country, serving a diverse range of passengers and places. It is vital that we have the best partner to help us meet the challenge of delivering better journeys for all customers using these services.
“We are investing in additional capacity, and have ambitious plans for smart ticketing, customer service and improved connectivity across the South Western network, to give passengers real benefits across the region and beyond.”