EAST MIDLANDS Trains has agreed a new short-term rail franchise with the Department for Transport. The agreement bridges the gap to the planned start of a new competed franchise in August.
The new deal commences on 3 March and runs until at least 18 August, with DfT having the option to extend it by up to 24 weeks on agreed terms. Stagecoach says the contract will see revenue risk sit primarily with DfT, with EMT expected to earn a modest profit under the contract through a profit-sharing arrangement with the Department.
Under the new agreement, EMT will support delivery of the Midland main line upgrade programme (p52) and will continue improvements to stations and trains, including accessibility improvements. It promises the rollout of smart ticketing in March as part of the wider programme on National Rail. EMT also says it will focus on ensuring readiness for the new franchise, including helping to put in place plans for extra seats from 2020, when the MML upgrade is due to be completed.
Stagecoach has operated the EMT franchise for over 11 years and is shortlisted to bid for the new deal alongside Abellio and Arriva
