Longer Franchise Terms Needed

In a recent presentation Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson outlined is vision for the future of rail travel within Britain with some impressive ideas he believes can be achieved as part of his 2020 goal.

Branson also outlined that improvements to the magnitude he envisions need to be support by the Department of Transport awarding much lengthier franchises. Such elements are currently restricted to between seven and ten years, he believes that periods of between twenty and thirty years will offer a more realistic opportunity for large initiatives to be achieved.

As part of his vision for the rail industry Branson suggested such initiatives as journey times between Birmingham and London in under sixty minutes, journey between London and Glasgow in less than four hours. Also ambitious constructions such as an underground extensions to Birmingham International station and West Coast Main line links.

Key to these visions is however definitely linked to the matter of franchises, with more commitment from the Department of Transport on lengthier terms there should be a healthier commitment from investors in return.