13.11.13
High speed services to continue for Kent
Southeastern will continue to provide high speed services between Sandwich and Deal, the DfT has announced.
The current franchise will end in October 2014, after which a direct award will be put in place to continue services until the new franchise starts in June 2018.
Rail minister Stephen Hammond said: “This is good news for passengers and local businesses along the route and provides certainty in the short term. Over the coming months my officials will be looking at developing plans for the new direct award franchise and I am keen to see this vital route continue.
“We recognise the importance of strong transport links to communities and the benefits it delivers to economic growth locally. This is why we are investing record amounts into our rail network, improving services for passengers and getting the best deal for taxpayers.”
Charles Horton, managing director of Southeastern, said: “Our high speed services continue to achieve some of the highest customer satisfaction rates in the country. We’re pleased to be able to continue to provide the service to Sandwich and Deal. We know our passengers value this service and the faster journey times to and from London.”
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Image c. Clem Rutter