Train operator labelled shambolic wins franchise extension

TRAIN operators London Midland and Virgin Rail have received rail route franchise extensions from the Government.

The contract extensions announcement came as the Department for Transport (DfT) outlined long-term plans for rail franchising.

The London Midland franchise extension is likely to raise eyebrows amongst the local travelling public.

It has had its franchise extended to 2017 despite the chaos it created on local railway lines last autumn due to a shortage of drivers.

The firm – which runs service throughout the region and from the region to London – oversaw a period of turmoil last autumn.

Furious rail users called for the train operator London Midland to be stripped of its franchise after dozens of cancellations.

Lobbying group The West Midlands Campaign for Better Transport accused the rail firm of overseeing a ‘shambles’ which saw thousands of commuters facing lengthy delays or cancellations.

London Midland blamed a shortfall of qualified drivers as scores of its drivers have been head-hunted by rival operators offering higher wages.

Local MPs called for urgent action over the fiasco.

London Midland apologised to passengers in a statement and has recently apologised again via posters at local stations and has offered five days of free travel to season ticket holders.

Patrick Verwer, managing director of London Midland, said: “We welcome the announcement of the Government’s extension of our franchise to June 2017.

“This gives us the stability for the next four years to continue to improve our service, and focus on providing the reliable, consistent service our passengers expect and deserve.

“We have seen a continuous period of improvement in our performance since December, and we will continue with our on-going programme of driver recruitment and training. We will also continue to invest in our stations, and in new innovative technology such as our new 110 mph trains to London.”

Meanwhile, the franchise for the West Coast Main Line will continue to be operated by Virgin Rail Group until April 2017. Last year it was extended until November 2014 following a successful challenge by Virgin to the franchise being awarded to FirstGroup.

Virgin complained about faults in the bidding process and the decision was overturned.