Havant MP Alan Mak is urging rail users and local residents to take part in a consultation on the South Western train franchise that comes up for renewal in two years’ time.
The Department of Transport is running a competition to find the new operator for the Hampshire-wide service, currently run by Stagecoach South West Trains, but due to end in 2017.
Ministers have said that the key focus for the new franchise will be to tackle overcrowding, improve passenger experience and invest in rolling stock and infrastructure.
The Department of Transport is keen to hear from passengers during the 12-week consultation to help inform and develop the franchise specification for the tender that will be issued to interested companies in April 2016.
Alan Mak MP said, “Havant is home to many commuters who use rail services to travel around the Solent region an up to London. The future of rail travel is vitally important for local residents and the government really needs to know what local people think about the service and what could be improved,” said George.
“I encourage residents to submit their ideas to the Government’s consultation, so they can tailor the franchise specification, and ensure interested rail operators are clear about what local residents want.”
On 21 October 2015, during a Parliamentary debate in Westminster Hall, Mak stressed the need for better rail services from Havant to London, and between Havant and the wider Solent region including Portsmouth. The Havant MP said dremand for local rail services is increasing due to economic growth in the Havant area attracting more workers and businesses, as well as growth in visitors to Hayling Island and Emsworth.
The rail franchise covering the Havant line is due to renewal in 2017 and Mak said this was an opportunity for the train companies to boost their investment into the area if they wanted to keep running trains in the region.
The consultation ends 9th February 2016 and it can be accessed online via: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/south-western-rail-franchise
Responses should be e-mailed to the Department of Transport: [email protected] copying Alan Mak MP for his reference: [email protected]