Posted 16th July 2014 | 1 Comment

New Essex Thameside franchise confirmed

THE Department for Transport has confirmed it has officially signed the contract for the new Essex Thameside franchise with National Express Essex Thameside Trains Limited.

The 15-year contract will allow the company, trading as c2c, to invest £160 million in various improvements.

The franchise provides commuter services between London, Barking, Basildon, Tilbury, Southend and Shoeburyness.

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: “The Essex Thameside franchise provides a vital service for tens of millions of passengers every year and with this deal we have ensured that they are going to see real improvements. New trains, thousands more seats, free wi-fi and millions invested in stations are just some of the benefits that commuters can look forward to.

“It’s further proof that our franchising programme is back on track, playing a key role in a long-term economic plan that is driving forward our economy and benefitting hard-working people.”

The franchise follows the award of the Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern franchise to Govia in May. It is the second franchise the department has let since the re-launch of its franchising programme in March last year. This followed an independent review into franchising by Richard Brown following the collapse of the Intercity West Coast franchise competition in October 2012.

The signing followed a formal standstill period after the DfT had announced its intention to award the contract on 27 June.

Reader Comments:

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  • Melvyn Windebank, Canvey Island, Essex

    Given the delays to trains today Wednesday 16th July its compensation re 2 minute delays might have racked up plenty money today !

    Given the length of the new franchise users of stations like Barking which is promised a major upgrade will wonder how long inti the franchise then upgrades promised will occur together with plan for fully accessible network.