UK government to makeover East Coast Main Line

The UK government was advised to evaluate the required improvements on the East Coast Main Line to entice passengers in using trains instead of planes when travelling between London and northern Scotland. The request came from MPs as the state-owned East Coast geared up to take over responsibility from the National Express.

MP Frank Doran said that the government should see what can be done to improve the rail service between Aberdeen and Edinburgh. The government informed that there will be a £12 million budget for improving the train stations.

Elaine Holt, Chair of East Coast, informed its 18 million passengers that they will soon notice upgrades on complimentary food for premium train travellers. The train’s trolley facility will also get a makeover.

She however confirmed that the raise in non-regulated, off-peak train fares would be implemented in January 2010, drawing criticism from various green groups. However, regulated fares, including seasonal tickets, will go down 0.4 per cent. Currently, the public transport operates three daily trains each way between the UK’s capital city and Aberdeen, and one train a day each way between London and Inverness.

Opposition MPs however said that the East Coast situation shows the weakness of the rail franchise system. Similarly, rail unions had called for East Coast to permanently remain in the public sector.

Anthony Smith, Chief of Passenger Focus, informed that the watchdog body will monitor the train service to make sure passengers continue to avail of good quality service and to see seat reservation charges are scraped.