Scottish Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth has today confirmed that a decision has been made to terminate the Serco Caledonian Sleeper contract.
In an answer to the Scottish parliament, she said: “I can confirm that today Serco Caledonian Sleepers Limited has been advised that its proposal to rebase the Franchise Agreement with Scottish Ministers for the provision of Caledonian Sleeper rail services has been rejected on the grounds of not representing value for money to the public.
“Additionally, I can confirm that a notice was served today which confirms that the Scottish Ministers will terminate the Franchise Agreement with Serco Caledonian Sleepers Limited on 25 June 2023.
“Work is underway to determine arrangements for the continued provision of Caledonian Sleeper rail services beyond 25 June 2023 and this will be updated to Parliament once determined.
“It is worth noting that Serco Caledonian Sleepers Limited has, broadly, delivered well and significantly improved Caledonian Sleeper services over the last seven years.”
The CS franchise was split from the ScotRail operations in 2015, with Abellio replacing FirstGroup operating ScotRail. The Scottish government has since replaced Abellio.
Caledonian Sleeper operates two trains per night in each direction between the Central Belt and London, and between the Highlands and London.
0113 2082620
info@railbusinessdaily.com
15 Mariner Court, Wakefield WF4 3FL
