£40m investment in enhancements at stations promised
The Department for transport this week announced that Stagecoach South Western Trains Limited (Stagecoach Group plc) has retained the contract to run the South Western franchise from 4 February 2007.
The South Western franchise comprises services currently operated by South West Trains, including commuter routes via Chiswick and Putney into London.
According the the operators, capacity will be increased on both mainline and suburban services by around 20%, more rolling stock will be added to the fleet and smartcard technology will be rolled out across the franchise area by 2009 with fare structures changing to incentivise travel outside the busiest periods of peak time.
The franchise will provide £40m investment in enhancements at stations. 14 stations including Waterloo will be gated and extra security measures, including more visible staff, will be brought in.
Rail Minister Tom Harris said "This is a good deal for passengers and a good deal for the taxpayer. We want to build upon improvements in reliability and the major investment in rolling stock on the South Western franchise.
"Today's contract will mean that capacity will further increase and there will be more seats for many passengers on busy routes, with longer trains and extra services operating.
"Passengers across the franchise area are set to be the first outside London to benefit from smart ticketing. Travellers will also see improved performance and more security measures at stations."
September 28, 2006