06.11.17
GTR could be broken up by DfT to combat repeated strike action
The Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) franchise could be broken up in 2021 when its contract comes up for renewal, the government has said today.
The move may help to reduce strike action across Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern (TSGN) networks, with Southern specifically causing multiple problems.
Disputes between the network and the rail unions ASLEF and the RMT over driver-only operated (DOO) trains and pay have led to increasing industrial action.
A DfT spokesman said: “In advance of the expiry of a franchise contract, the department considers the size and scale to ensure new train operations best meet passenger needs.
“We are actively looking at the shape and size of the next Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern franchise on expiry of the existing contract in 2021.”
GTR is run by Govia, a joint-venture between Go-Ahead Group and France’s Keolis which also operated the London Midland franchise until recently.
Previously, the franchise has also come under scrutiny for its use of an unusual management contract where fare income does not go to GTR.
The DfT receives revenue from ticket sales and takes on the revenue risk, with the company operating the service in exchange for a management fee, thought to be in the region of £1bn.
Have you got a story to tell? Would you like to become an RTM columnist? If so, click here.