Govia visit Glossop

On Thursday 5th March Andy Paterson from Govia - one of the three franchise bidders for the next Northern franchise - met Neil at Glossop. After a quick tour of the station discussion began in relation to the recently published DfT's Invitation to Tender document. Andy was surprised that FOGS' wish list did not include new trains! Instead Neil emphasised, in FOGS' priorities, the importance of retaining the current popular electric 323 units, retention of booking offices and the maintenance of the current skip stopping timetable. Most importantly Neil stressed the unsuitability of the Glossop line for Tram train services. Discussions were wide ranging and interesting. Andy said Govia were keeping a watching brief on HS3 developments - an interim report by the DfT is expected soon. We will then see, of course whether the former Woodhead route is to have any role. Andy's return journey was made via Dinting where he was able to view Project Earth's attractive ceramic displays. Also in evidence - work by Northern to provide CIS screens is well advanced. We thank Andy for his interest and visit and we look forward to similar discussions with Abellio and Arriva - the other two bidders.