Member Article

Department for Transport extends First TransPennine Express deal to 2016

FirstGroup has signed an agreement with the Department for Transport extending the operation of First TransPennine Express rail until April 2016.

First TransPennine Express began its operations in 2004, operating three major routes across the North of England, the original end date for the deal was 31 March 2015.

Since the beginning of its contract passenger numbers have doubled from 13m to 26m.

The extension agreement marks the roll out of free Wi-Fi across stations along its routes as well as an increase in seats along its major routes.

The Department for Transport has shortlisted three operators to run the routes from April 2016, these are First TransPennine Express Limited; Keolis Go-Ahead Limited; and Stagecoach TransPennine Express Trains Limited.

Rail Minister Claire Perry said: “We have ambitious plans for rail across the north of England, with more than £1 billion being invested in the region’s railways.

“We have set out how we will transform rail services across the north over the next few years, but we are determined that passengers shouldn’t have to wait to see much-needed improvements.

“This agreement with First TransPennine Express will make a real difference to passengers, paving the way for the next franchise to further develop a railway the north of England is proud of.”

FirstGroup Chief Executive, Tim O’Toole, said: “We have an excellent track record at First TransPennine Express, which provides vital connections between key cities in the North of England and Scotland.

“Since the franchise began, our experienced team have worked hard to introduce brand new trains, refurbished stations, increased frequency and improved journey times.

“As a result the service is more popular than ever, now carrying 26m passengers a year compared to 13m in 2004.

“Today’s agreement with the Department for Transport provides continuity and consistency for First TransPennine Express passengers over the next year, as we focus on continuing to deliver great customer service and introducing improvements ahead of submitting our bid for the new franchise later in the Spring.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sophia Taha .