First handed TransPennine Express extension

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First Group has been awarded a one-year extension to continue operating the TransPennine Express franchise.

First will retain the franchise until April 2016 under the direct award, which includes a number of commitments to improve services along the route.

The Department for Transport (DfT) only recently published the Invitation to Tender (ITT) for the Northern and TransPennine Express franchises.

First TransPennine Express Limited, Keolis Go-Ahead Limited and Stagecoach TransPennine Express Trains Limited have been shortlisted for the new franchise.

Rail Minister Claire Perry said: “We have ambitious plans for rail across the north of England, with more than £1 billion being invested in the region’s railways.

“We have set out how we will transform rail services across the north over the next few years, but we are determined that passengers shouldn’t have to wait to see much-needed improvements.

“This agreement with First TransPennine Express will make a real difference to passengers, paving the way for the next franchise to further develop a railway the north of England is proud of.”

The direct award includes a requirement for First to install free Wi-Fi at all First TransPennine stations, introduce a smart ticketing system and upgrade the train fleet.

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