DfT Consultation process for new franchise

On 24 July in Glossop the High Peak and Hope Valley Community Rail Partnership met to consider responses to the DfT for the new Northern and TransPennine franchises due to start February 2016. Each of the 3 local lines - Buxton, Glossop and the Hope Valley - was considered thoroughly and a  detailed response for each line has been produced. More information on these can be found by accessing the HPHVCRP website hvhptp.org.uk which also has the link to the Department's Consultation paper. Specifically for the Glossop Line it was suggested earlier trains on Sundays would be of benefit as would retaining a 30 minute service throughout the evening. We urged that the current 323 trains should continue in use and that the service remain Heavy Rail. Further investment should take place in providing electronic travel information particularly at Dinting, Broadbottom, Hattersley and Newton.Ticket offices should be retained and buildings enhanced.  Possible TfGM proposals for future Tram train operation have been viewed as unsuitable for the Glossop Line by both the High Peak and Hope Valley Community Rail Partnership and the South East Manchester Community rail Partnership. It is hoped to establish a Glossop Line Group later in the year for the Glossop Line. Anyone interested in being part of this is asked to contact FOGS. We would particularly like representation which covers Tameside and the stations of Newton and Flowery Field. Anyone is welcome to comment on the DfT franchise proposals but these much reach the DfT at Great Minster House, Horseferry Road London SW1P 4DR by August 18th. It is expected that the Government will announce 3 or 4 possible bidders for each of the two franchises in September/October.