UK DfT Announces Much-Needed Improvements to South East England Rail

Rail services across London and South East England will receive a major boost thanks to new franchise agreements announced by the British Transport Minister Andrew Adonis.

Adonis announced that new, more robust requirements for bidders would be put in place to ensure more frequent and reliable services for passengers.

"The South Central franchise provides a vital commuter link into London from the South coast and provides important linkages into South Coast towns such as Hastings and Worthing, so it is essential we give passengers access to the best facilities," Adonis said.

Passengers in south London and parts of Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire will benefit from more trains on key lines, increased capacity at peak times and improved security on platforms and trains. This includes significantly increasing the number of key stations staffed at night.

Bidders will also be instructed to set targets for passenger satisfaction for the first time, with fines in place if these are not met. In addition, the provision of new ticketing barriers will mean passengers in South London will be able to use Oyster cards at more stations across the network.

All trains will be fitted with CCTV, 1,500 extra secure cycling bays and 1,000 extra parking spaces will be provided and stations across the network will be refurbished.

The Department will also fund, and TfL will install, ticket gates at around 14 stations in south London before September 2009.

Managing director of TfL London Rail, Ian Brown, said that they had been working closely with the DfT on the specification for the new franchise and were delighted with the improvements the upgrades will bring.

"TFL would also be funding improvements that will pay for a programme of cleaning and repairs to stations within the London area, as well as additional staff and more cycle parking," Brown said.

By Daniel Garrun