DfT and NR discussing Shaw recommendations

The Department for Transport is looking through the recommendations made by Nicola Shaw in her report published earlier this year, but has yet to confirm any outcomes.

The outgoing HS1 Chief Executive recommended that Network Rail should look outside the industry for funding, and that routes could be controlled by third parties ( RAIL 797).

Stuart White, Programme Director, Network Services London and South East, DfT Rail at the DfT, said: “We are trying to work through the Shaw report and what it says. Large changes are suggested, and lots of what was said Network Rail is already doing. Nicola’s ideas do need thinking through before they are implemented.”

Speaking at an East Anglia Rail Summit at Westminster on September 7, White said work is under way between the DfT and NR on how to improve collaboration.

“I would highlight the franchising programme and the Long-Term Industry Plans, and say there is a gap,” he said. “I would think about aligning them. That could stop infrastructure plans restraining franchise plans, which doesn’t seem right to me.”

He added: Network Rail needs to be customer-focused and engaged across the industry. I don’t think the passenger voice has been heard enough. Equally, local businesses and communities need to have an input.”

White also discussed the way the High Level Output Specification (HLOS) programme is developed, and hinted at changes: “The last HLOS had the spending all marked out, but that will change. It will be looked at on a case-by-case basis to make sure we get the benefits.

“However, this is a work in progress and we need to engage with stakeholders.”