Transport group pulls out of bid to renew rail franchise

Transport group Arriva has pulled out of the bidding process to renew its operation of the Wales and Borders rail franchise.

The franchise, operated by Arriva Trains Wales, includes several routes through Shropshire including Shrewsbury to Chester, Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth and Cardiff to Shrewsbury.

Tom Joyner, managing director of Arriva Trains Wales said: “We have been notified that Arriva Group have withdrawn from the bidding process for the next Wales and Borders franchise.

“Our key priority following this announcement is to continue to focus on the delivery of our services for the people and communities that depend on us for the remainder of the current franchise, including a £1m Arriva Trains Wales investment in additional trains which will be introduced in 2018.

“We will continue to work closely with our government and industry partners to support them with the delivery of their priorities.”