THE END OF THE LINE FOR ARRIVA
FIRM WITHDRAWS BID TO RUN TRAIN SERVICES FROM 2018
ARRIVA Trains Wales has pulled out of a competitive tender process to run the next Wales and Borders rail franchise.
The decision of the German-owned train company, which is the current holder of the Wales and Borders rail franchise through Arriva Trains Wales, also means it is no longer in the running to build the next phase of the Welsh Government’s Metro transport project, with electrification of the Valley Lines.
The franchise is scheduled to commence in late 2018.
It leaves three companies bidding to run the next 15 year Wales and Borders rail franchise, which is being devolved from the UK Government to the Welsh Government.
They are KeolisAmey, a joint venture between French transport giant Keolis and public service provide Amey, Hong Kong-based MTR Corporation, which is one of the world’s leading transport companies with interests globally from Australia to Sweden, and Abellio Group, which operates bus and rail networks across Europe and is the international arm of the Dutch national rail operator.
They have been invited by the Welsh Government’s wholly-owned transport company, Transport for Wales, to submit their final bids in December.
This includes their plans for electrifying the Valley Lines and the type of rolling stock they would operate on it – which could see trams being pressed into service.
Arriva would have spent a considerable amount, potentially running into several million pounds, on its bid to date.
In a statement Transport for Wales said: “Arriva Rail Wales have notified Transport for Wales that they intend to withdraw from the bidding process for the next Wales and Borders rail fran-
chise. It is not uncommon for bidders for major projects to withdraw during the tender process and Arriva have been clear they have done this for their own commercial reasons.
“The procurement process is a tough and demanding one and we recognise Arriva’s extensive work to date.
“We would like to thank the company for their support and positive attitude since the procurement started and we will continue to work closely with the company to ensure that existing staff and customers are central to our transition planning over the next 12 months.
“With final tenders due later this year, we have three companies with world-class credentials each putting their own, distinct cases for how they will deliver the ambitious objectives we set, with the goal of delivering a step change in rail services for passengers across Wales and the Borders.”
Arriva has been operating the franchise since 2003. It is expected that staff will transfer over to the winner of the next franchise.
In a statement, Tom Joyner, managing director of Arriva Trains Wales, said: “We have been notified that Arriva Group have withdrawn from the bidding process for the next Wales and Borders franchise.
“Our key priority following this announcement is to continue to focus on the delivery of our services for the people and communities that depend on us for the remainder of the current franchise, including a £1m Arriva Trains Wales investment in additional trains which will be introduced in 2018.
“We will continue to work closely with our government and industry partners to support them with the delivery of their priorities.”
Responding to the news on Facebook, Gary Hughes said: “I can only say that I’m delighted. Best news in a long time. Hopefully the bus services will follow.”
Vishaun Shaun Roberts said: “Good... the service provided from Arriva trains wales is terrible. Delays, Problems.. give someone else the oppurtunity to provide a service to good paying customers.”
Owain Williams said: “Well done Arriva best decision you’ve made in nearly 15 years”
Ben Jones said: “Hooray! Hopefully services can only improve from the current dire state!”