East Coast Rail back in private hands

THE East Coast rail route between London and Scotland is back in private hands after more than five years in the public sector.

Services on the line have been operated by a Department for Transport (DfT) controlled company since November 2009 but as of yesterday, they will be run by Virgin and Stagecoach under the name Virgin Trains East Coast.

The DfT said the new franchise would mean “the best deal for passengers”.

A DfT spokesman said: “The skills and experience that the private sector provides drives forward innovation and investment, and has helped to transform our rail network into a real success story.

“We are confident that the new East Coast franchise gives the best deal for passengers.

“It will provide more seats, more services, new trains and over £140m of investment along the route. In addition, more than £3bn will be paid to taxpayers.”