The Department for Transport has published the Invitation to Tender for the new Great western franchise, which will run from 2013 to 2028. it contains some interesting developments, including:
1. The current service level on the Severn Beach will be included in the specification, so will not require funding by the local authorities.
2. The new franchise will be based broadly on the current timetable, rather than the contracted minimum in the existing franchise.
3. Bidders are also asked to price the following improvements:
3.1 Additional weekday rail services and reinstatement of Sunday services from Salisbury to Swindon via Melksham
3.2 Bristol Metro Phase 1 - a half hourly service in the Greater Bristol Metropolitan Area including re-opening of the rail line to Portishead to passenger services
3.3 A much strengthened service on the Heart of Wessex line between Bristol and Weymouth
Further details, including service changes elsewhere in the franchise, can be found at www.dft.gov.uk.
New Great Western Franchise
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Pompey Lad
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