Go-Ahead Group plc : Go-Ahead shortlisted for Thameslink rail franchise

Go-Ahead and its joint venture partner Keolis (Govia) are delighted to be shortlisted to bid for the Thameslink franchise.

We are a highly experienced rail operator with a proven ability to deliver passenger improvements. With a wealth of knowledge of the proposed Thameslink network and vast experience of the London commuter rail market we believe we are well placed to deliver a successful bid.

Our experienced permanent bid team will be working hard over the coming months to understand the aspirations of stakeholders and we look forward to receiving the Invitation to Tender document from the Department for Transport.

Unfortunately we have not been shortlisted to bid for the Essex Thameside franchise and we will be seeking feedback from the Department for Transport.

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Go-Ahead is a leading UK public transport operator, providing high quality services in the bus and rail sectors. Employing around 22,000 people across the country, over one billion passenger journeys are undertaken on our services each year. We are committed to operating our companies in a safe, socially and environmentally responsible way and are proud to have been awarded the Carbon Trust Standard after taking action on climate change. In addition to the travelling public, our customers include the Department for Transport, Transport for London (TfL) and local authorities.

Our rail division operates the Southern (including Gatwick Express), Southeastern and London Midland franchises through our 65% owned subsidiary Govia. It is the busiest rail operation in the UK, responsible for nearly 30% of all UK passenger rail journeys. In December 2009, Southeastern began operating the UK's first high speed domestic rail service between Kent and London, significantly reducing journey times.