NEW SOUTHERN RAILWAY PROMISES A FRESH START

The selection of the GoVia group as preferred bidders for a 20-year franchise on the South Central rail network is the first time that a franchise will have been transferred between two private sector groups. The GoVia development plan for the network is based on a study of county structural plans and population forecasts to highlight brownfield sites with potential. Work will start in the London area to make best use of available capacity by using longer platforms and increased train formations by 2002. Other plans included electrification of sections of the network, upgrading of the Coastway route and upgrading of the Arun Valley line to give an alternative route to London. The GoVia Group is a joint venture between the Go-Ahead Group and Via Carianne, a subsidiary of the French state rail operator SNCF, which will provide technical support to the New Southern Railway.