DLR buyout managers pledge improved service service
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Docklands Light Railway was yesterday taken over by a management buyout team with a pledge to improve its poor levels of reliability and cut taxpayers' support for the network by pounds 32m, writes Michael Harrison.
Docklands Railway Management, a consortium of senior DLR managers backed by the facilities management group Serco, won the seven-year franchise in competition with a bid by the bus company Go Ahead and VIA of France.
John Gummer, the Environment Secretary, said that the franchising of the DLR would mean improved efficiency, reliability and quality of service and reduced public subsidies. Last year the DLR, which carries 61,000 passengers a day, received grant aid of pounds 21m.
The buyout team will receive a fixed annual fee to cover the DLR's operating losses, all fare revenues and income from commercial activities. The fixed fee will be cut if minimum service levels are not met and the new operators will have to meet any shortfall themselves. Investment of pounds 45m is earmarked over the next seven years.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments