Train companies shortlisted for West Midlands franchise

Three names have been shortlisted to compete for the next West Midlands franchise competition.

The Department for Transport have today (7 April 2016) announced the three companies that have been successfully shortlisted for the West Midlands franchise competition.

After many submissions of interest, the shortlisted companies are London and West Midlands Railway Ltd, West Midlands Trains Ltd and MTR Corporation (West Midlands) Ltd.

London and West Midlands Railway Ltd are a subsidiary of Govia Ltd – a joint venture between Keolis and Go-Ahead Group.

West Midlands Trains Ltd are currently a wholly owned subsidiary of Abellio Transport Group Ltd with East Japan Railway Company and Mitsui & Co Ltd as minority partners.

MTR Corporation (West Midlands) Ltd are a wholly owned subsidiary of MTR Corporation (UK) Ltd.

Rail Minister, Claire Perry said: “The West Midlands franchise serves both commuters and long distance passengers and we are confident these companies will create high quality bids that can deliver better journeys for all.

“Today’s announcement marks a key step forward in giving passengers improved services across the region and beyond.”

The contract award is expected to be made in June 2017, with the new operator due to take over the franchise in October 2017.

The current franchise spans over the midlands, south-east and north-west as well services to London Euston and Liverpool Lime Street, covering a combination of commuting and long distance services.

The Department for Transport also announced today the joint consortium of East Japan Railway Company and Mitsui & Co Ltd has been awarded a new Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) Passport. The passport enables Companies who are eligible, to express an interest in all upcoming rail franchise competitions for the next four years.

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