Abellio, First and National Express battle it out for East Anglia rail deal

Three companies are in the running for the new East Anglia rail franchise the DfT wants to significantly reduce London-Norwich journey times, it is announced today.

Abellio, First and National Express have reached the pre-qualification stage for the franchise that covers intercity services, the Stansted Express, Great Eastern suburban rail services, West Anglia services from London to Cambridge and King's Lynn, and regional services with branches to the coast. They will receive an invitation to tender in August. 

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 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."

The Department says that a public consultation on the future of rail services in East Anglia will be taken into account as the franchise proposals are developed. The new operator is due to take over the franchise, currently operated by Abellio Greater Anglia, a joint venture between the Dutch state-owned Abellio and Stagecoach, in October 2016.