GTS Rail Operations Limited Will Take Over Elizabeth Line Services From May 2025

Wedoany.com Report-Nov 22, The contract spans seven years with an option to extend for up to two additional years.

Transport for London (TfL) has announced that GTS Rail Operations Limited, a joint venture between Go Ahead Group, Tokyo Metro, and Sumitomo Corporation, will become the new operator of the Elizabeth line starting in May 2025.

GTS Rail Operations Limited will replace the current operator, MTR Corporation (Crossrail) Limited. The Elizabeth line, which opened in 2022, has quickly become one of the UK's most popular railways, carrying more than 700,000 passengers daily. The line has improved travel across London and the South East by reducing journey times and increasing capacity.

The new contract focuses on several key objectives:

Preparing for increased services to Old Oak Common, anticipated to open in 2030.

Maintaining a strong emphasis on customer and staff safety.

Collaborating closely with industry partners, including Network Rail, to ensure high performance and customer satisfaction.

Investing in personnel and technology to enhance operational performance and manage disruptions effectively.

Introducing 10 new Class 345 trains to accommodate growing passenger numbers and provide additional services.

Coordinating with TfL, Network Rail, and HS2 for operations at the upcoming Old Oak Common station.

Delivering over 500 apprenticeships during the contract period.

Providing grants to local community groups to support grassroots initiatives.

TfL will continue to set fares and handle marketing for the services, with revenue from ticket sales reinvested into the transport network. Service levels and train schedules are expected to remain consistent, and all Elizabeth line stations will continue to be staffed from the first to the last train, maintaining a Turn Up and Go (TUAG) service.

Staff currently employed by MTR Corporation (Crossrail) Limited are expected to transfer to GTS Rail Operations Limited under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 (TUPE), ensuring continuity of service. The Elizabeth line has consistently achieved high customer satisfaction scores and remains a significant part of London's transportation infrastructure.