Train operating body concerned over Network Rail decision

The Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) has raised concerns over Network Rail's decision to take maintenance contracts in-house.

Although supportive of the rail operator's move to strip maintenance contractors of their agreements, which was announced last week, ATOC said it had "real concerns" over its implementation.

"This is a huge move and there are concerns over whether Network Rail can have both the processes and management resources in place to make it work," said an ATOC spokesman. "The decision to bring the contracts in-house was the right thing to do in helping provide a cheaper and more reliable service. However, we don't want black holes appearing from a lack of planning by the rail operator."

The spokesman also said that it had been left in the dark over how the rail operator would be timetabling all the contracts coming back in house.

"No future meetings have been made with Network Rail. We just have to let it get on with it," he added.

Asked how train operating companies would save from bringing the contracts in-house, the spokesman said there was "no figure available" but that substantial gains should be made from a reduction in train delays due to unreliable maintenance work.