South Eastern Trains: the state bows out in style

South Eastern Trains (SET), the only train operating company in the UK in the hands of the taxpayer, is to be franchised despite improvements in its performance in recent years. Four factors have been identified as contributing to the improvements: Network Rail performance has improved; Section One of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link has been opened, taking Eurostars off the crowded main line through Tonbridge and Sevenoaks; New Electrostar trains have been introduced, and SET management has the sole job of running the railway. SET took over the franchise from French operator Connex following financial and performance problems. The problems experienced by SET by the multiple termini available to its services are outlined. SET has to share the tracks with other operators, e.g. Thameslink and Southern, often at the tightest pinchpoints. Other problems are caused by the flat junctions on the London approaches. The Thameslink 2000 project would solve SET's problems. SET is nearing the end of transition from Mk 1 EMUs to new stock (a mixed fleet of Electrostars and Networkers). Reliability figures for the new trains are improving. In December 2005, the new IKF franchisee is due to take over.