Trio of companies vying for key rail routes
THREE companies have been shortlisted to take over routes spanning the North West, Midlands and South East when the current West Midlands rail franchise ends next year.
Current operator London Midland, which is a joint venture between Keolis and Go-Ahead Group, are joined on the shortlist by MTR Corporation and West Midlands Trains, a subsidiary of Abellio Transport Group with Japan Railways East and Mitsui Corporation as minority partners.
The successful bidder is expected to be named in June 2017 before it takes over the franchise in October 2017.
The current franchise includes routes from London Euston which take in Birmingham New Street and Crewe, longer-distance routes which link Birmingham New Street with Liverpool Lime Street, Hereford and Shrewsbury, as well as local services in the West Midlands.
Rail Minister Claire Perry said: “The West Midlands franchise serves both commuters and long distance passengers and we are confident these companies will create high quality bids that can deliver better journeys for all.
“Today’s announcement marks a key step forward in giving passengers improved services across the region and beyond.”
The Department for Transport also announced today the joint consortium of East Japan Railway and Mitsui & Co has been awarded a new Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) Passport.
The consortium joins the Department’s list of Passport Holders who are eligible to express an interest in all upcoming rail franchise competitions for the next four years.
