The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced the names of three bidders shortlisted to operate rail services in East Anglia from October 2016.
Abellio East Anglia Limited – an Abellio/Stagecoach joint venture, First East Anglia and National Express East Anglia Trains have all prequalified for the new franchise.
The Invitation to Tender (ITT) is expected to be issued in August.
Bidders are expected to show how they can incorporate the recommendations of the Great Eastern Main Line Taskforce into their proposals.
Rail minister Claire Perry said: “We have ambitious plans for East Anglia’s rail network, and the successful bidder will be central to making these plans a reality.
“We want to find a partner who will help us meet the increasing demand for transport in the region by providing faster, more reliable journeys and better connections across the region and beyond.”
