UK Rail Minister Stephen Hammond is set to award the Essex Thameside franchise to its current operator, c2c.
The contract forms a part of the government’s multi-billion pound investment to improve journeys between London and the commuter hubs of Barking, Basildon, Southend and further afield.
Under the contract, c2c will operate and improve £160m worth of passenger services on the franchise over the next 15 years.
The contract also includes the delivery of an additional fleet of 17 new trains, which will provide 4,800 extra seats and complete step-free access at all stations for passengers with mobility difficulties.
Minister Hammond said: "This deal is all about putting passengers at the heart of our railways.
"Brand new trains, thousands more seats and millions of pounds invested in stations will mean significantly improved journeys for those passengers who use these services every day. It is further proof that our long-term economic plan is on track with the taxpayer getting more than £2 billion out of this deal."
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataIn order to achieve new targets for punctuality, c2c is expected to make more than 90% of services available at respective destinations within one minute by the end of December 2018.
Image: Southend train station. Photo: courtesy of Crown.