Following the publication of his report into the troubled Govia Thameslink Railway franchise, CHRIS GIBB spoke exclusively to TONY MILES
The Gibb Report
Network Rail director Chris Gibb’s report into the Govia Thameslink Railway franchise was published by the Department for Transport on 22 June. It is dated 30 December 2016; Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said the report had been due to be published in April but this was delayed by the calling of the General Election. The report makes a total of 38 recommendations, of which the Government has said it will support 34, although exactly which it will not take forward is presently unclear.
The report suggests ‘all elements of the system have been under strain’, highlighting issues including unreliable infrastructure, a tight timetable, depots that are full and in the wrong place and the issue of industrial action following the dispute over introduction of driver-controlled operation (DCO). It adds that the system ‘cannot possibly work to passengers’ satisfaction with these components in this state’.
Mr Gibb suggests teamwork across the system is critical, and recommends that ‘the custodian of the overall system integrity be better identified, empowered…
