Virgin set for interim West Coast deal

THE West Coast main line rail link is set to continue to be run by Virgin for the next year under a temporary contract, the Government has said.

After dramatically cancelling its franchise deal with FirstGroup earlier this month after revealing there were serious flaws in the tendering process, a short term solution was required as Virgin’s original contract expires on December 9.

The debacle is set to cost the taxpayer around £30m and has triggered a review of all other outstanding franchise awards and two investigations.

A statement from the Department for Transport said: “The current franchise is due to expire on 9 December after which it is the Government’s intention that Virgin remain as operator for a short period – expected to be between 9 and 13 months – while a competition is run for an interim franchise agreement.

“This interim agreement, which would be open to any bidders, will then run until the new long term West Coast franchise is ready to commence.”

Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin added: “The cancellation of the InterCity West Coast franchise is deeply regrettable and I apologise to the bidders involved and the taxpayer who have a right to expect better.

“My priority now is to fix the problem and the first step is to take urgent action to ensure that on the December 9 services continue to run to the same standard and passengers are not affected.

“I believe Virgin remaining as operator for a short period of time is the best way to do this and my officials and I will be working flat out to make this happen.”