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19/06/2014
Virgin Wins Announces West Coast Franchise
Virgin Trains and the Department for Transport have signed a new deal guaranteeing big improvements for both passengers and taxpayers.
The new West Coast franchise will run until March 2017 and will see significant improvements for customers with the introduction of free superfast WiFi, more seats and new services. Taxpayers will also benefit with a guarantee that more than £430m will be paid to government, a rise of at least 58% on the current arrangement.
The new West Coast contract comes into force on 22 June and will provide:
• More seats
• Better connectivity
• New services
• Customer reward programme
• Financial benefits for taxpayers
Patrick McCall, Virgin Trains Executive Co-Chairman, said: "We're delighted to have reached a deal after some tough negotiations with the DfT. It puts the problems of 2012 firmly behind us, and shows the clear benefits of a well-run franchise system.
"This deal is great news for passengers and taxpayers, with significant benefits for our customers as well as a big increase in the money we pay to government. We know WiFi is high on our customers' priorities and we’re delighted that we’re going to be able to offer them free and super-fast WiFi. Together with thousands of extra seats and plans for new services, this deal will mean big improvements for millions of Virgin Trains passengers."
(CVS/CD)
The new West Coast franchise will run until March 2017 and will see significant improvements for customers with the introduction of free superfast WiFi, more seats and new services. Taxpayers will also benefit with a guarantee that more than £430m will be paid to government, a rise of at least 58% on the current arrangement.
The new West Coast contract comes into force on 22 June and will provide:
• More seats
• Better connectivity
• New services
• Customer reward programme
• Financial benefits for taxpayers
Patrick McCall, Virgin Trains Executive Co-Chairman, said: "We're delighted to have reached a deal after some tough negotiations with the DfT. It puts the problems of 2012 firmly behind us, and shows the clear benefits of a well-run franchise system.
"This deal is great news for passengers and taxpayers, with significant benefits for our customers as well as a big increase in the money we pay to government. We know WiFi is high on our customers' priorities and we’re delighted that we’re going to be able to offer them free and super-fast WiFi. Together with thousands of extra seats and plans for new services, this deal will mean big improvements for millions of Virgin Trains passengers."
(CVS/CD)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
