Rail Franchising - The Future

[First Class]

Rail Franchising - The Future
I've created this thread basically because the recent First West Coast revelation affects more than just First Group.

The implications are considerable, because the DfT's admission must now put the 2013 franchising programme in jeopardy. Four franchises were due to be renewed next year – Essex Thameside (currently c2c), Greater Western, Thameslink and East Coast, but the letting processes are now suspended.

A review will be undertaken by Eurostar chairman Richard Brown, and examine the wider rail franchising programme. The DfT said it will look in detail at whether changes are needed to the way risk is assessed and to the bidding and evaluation processes, 'and at how to get the other franchise competitions back on track as soon as possible'.

This will report back by the end of December.

So, it appears franchising will be suspended entirely until at least early 2013.