Go-Ahead retains rail franchise

Jun 9 2009 By Karen Dent, The Journal

PUBLIC transport giant Go-Ahead has been re-awarded the right to run the South Central rail franchise, which operates trains in London and the South Coast.

The Newcastle bus and train company owns the majority stake in Govia, a French co-owned rail operator, which has managed the network since 2001. It is the UK’s biggest train operator and its three franchises carry around 30% of the country’s rail passengers.

The Department for Transport (DfT) re-awarded the franchise, known as Southern, for a further five years and 10 months, starting from September. The company has operated the route since 2001.

Go-Ahead plans to invest £76m to improve Southern’s trains and 167 stations. Last year the route, which includes the Gatwick Express, carried 120m passengers.

Go-Ahead chief executive and Govia chairman, Keith Ludeman, said: “I am delighted that the DfT has retained Govia to operate one of the UK’s most important and operationally complex rail franchises.

“The new franchise will deliver a comprehensive package of train, station and security investment, improved operational performance and innovative retailing.”