This agreement means that the First Capital Connect franchise will operate beyond its current planned end date of March 31 to September 14 this year, the anticipated start date for the new Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern franchise.
The agreement secures continuity of rail services for passengers and retains the FCC’s experience as the delivery partner of the multi-billion pound Thameslink Programme already well under way on the network.
FCC will continue its comprehensive fleet maintenance programme, as well as introducing service improvements for passengers, the company has said.
Managing director David Statham said: “First Capital Connect welcome the opportunity to deliver still more value for money for passengers during this franchise period.
"This gives passengers the assurance we will continue our investment to improve customers’ experience and work to deliver a train overhaul and ongoing station and service information improvements.”
