FirstGroup, the leading transport operator in the UK and North America,
notes the publication today by the Department for Transport (‘DfT’) of an
updated timetable for its rail franchising programme.
Today’s publication confirms that the DfT intend to negotiate a direct
award for our First Great Western franchise for a duration of three-and-a-half
years to March 2019, with a further extension of up to one year at the DfT’s
discretion. This direct award will ensure stability during a period when a
substantial programme of infrastructure upgrades will take place on the network
and new trains are to be introduced.
Commenting, Tim O’Toole, FirstGroup’s Chief Executive, said:
“We welcome the publication of the latest DfT franchising timetable
which continues to demonstrate clarity and momentum in the re-franchising
programme. A period of detailed negotiation will follow but we are very pleased
that, after a consultation process in which the DfT sought the views of
stakeholders and user groups across the line of route, the DfT intend to
negotiate a direct award with us which will be for three-and-a-half years with
an option to extend for up to one year at the DfT’s discretion. This offers
good value and better services for First Great Western passengers and in
particular, will provide stability and allow the planned major projects and new
trains to be delivered.”