29th June 2012
In this issue:Industry developments this week
The Department for Transport has launched a consultation on the future of the East Coast franchise, which is due to return to private ownership next year. DfT
Rail services remain disrupted after torrential rain in parts of Scotland and northern England caused flooding and landslides. BBC News
A new chairman has been appointed for Merseytravel after the previous incumbent was forced to resign. Liverpool Daily Post
New rail services
London’s new cable car opened on Thursday with a two speed service “designed to appeal to both commuters and tourists”. Transport Briefing
- The Diamond Geezer blog has a detailed description of a journey on the first day, while the Gondola Project says the service “doesn’t look good for commuters”.
A campaign has been launched for a “Portobello Central” Crossrail station in West London. Evening Standard
A new route has launched on London Tramlink, increasing capacity through Croydon by 50 per cent. Transport Briefing
Other stories
Alcohol is to be banned from Scottish trains in the evenings and mornings. BBC News
Greater Manchester is to introduce a ticketing system similar to London’s Oyster card for transport services. BBC News
Finance, business and sharecheck
Summary:
National Express has revealed that it is on the shortlist to operate a regional train business in Germany. The Times
- The Fitch credit ratings agency announced it had adjusted a National Express grade to BBB-, to reflect its leading position in some transport sectors and diversified earnings. Reuters
Stagecoach‘s Brian Souter has told The Times he hopes his company’s Megabus operation in the US will mitigate slumping profits at East Midlands Trains and Virgin Trains.
- Stagecoach this week announced a final dividend to shareholders. Reuters