Around 800 new carriages will be delivered from the end of next year as part of the company's promise to eliminate all slam door trains by 2004. Platforms will also be lengthened to accommodate ten-carriage trains. Chief executive of Stagecoach Keith Cochrane welcomed the decision to allow the company to continue running the network, which is used by approximately 2.5 million passengers a week. Our promise is to achieve the step change in customer service that our passengers have a right to expect. We will work closely with the SRA and passenger groups to build a new railway for the 21st century.
Today is the beginning of a new era for South West Trains.
SRA chief executive Mike Grant said Stagecoach had learned the lessons from its existing tenure and had acknowledged the need for further progress. But some train users did not share Mr Grants optimism. The trains are often late, with problems such as lack of drivers and strikes. Lets hope things improve. Let London know what you think Use our comment form to let London know your views.