HISTORIC PRESS RELEASE : Interim Agreement Between the Strategic Rail Authority and Virgin Rail Group [July 2002]

The press release issued by the Strategic Rail Authority on 22 July 2002.

The SRA welcomes the signing of an interim agreement with Virgin Rail Group regarding the West Coast Main Line and Virgin Cross Country franchises.

This agreement holds good the business while long-term solutions are explored by the SRA and Virgin Rail Group together.

SRA Chief Operating Officer, Nick Newton said:

“This specific, interim agreement between the SRA and Virgin Rail Group makes passenger sense and taxpayer sense and is bound by stringent terms and conditions. It delivers stability while the SRA works with Virgin Rail Group to identify and secure the best future for passenger service and delivery on these routes.

“Significantly, this agreement focuses on service delivery now and in the future, rather than on remonstrating about past problems.”