Proposed licence changes ensure Network Rail is accountable for its new responsibilities
04 March 2005
ORR/07/05
ORR has today published a consultation document setting out in detail the changes it proposes to make to Network Rail’s network licence for the company to meet the challenge of the new responsibilities placed upon Network Rail in the Government’s White Paper, The Future of Rail, published in July 2004.
This White Paper envisaged a significant development of Network Rail’s role. From being essentially an engineering and network operations company, its role is being extended to cover responsibilities concerning whole industry performance, industry planning and route utilisation strategies (RUSs).
These additional tasks all involve the public interest. It is therefore important that Network Rail is accountable for effective delivery of these tasks, and that the regulatory framework reflects these changes, with a fit-for-purpose licence.
Chris Bolt, ORR Chairman, said:
“Network Rail must show industry leadership if the rail industry is to deliver the significant improvements in performance and efficiency which users and taxpayers expect. In taking on its new responsibilities, Network Rail will need to:
- resource new activities properly;
- engage effectively with all industry parties and secure their support in carrying them out; and
- ensure that its management of these tasks generates improved rail services and better value for money.
“We look forward to receiving views on the changes we propose to make to ensure that Network Rail is accountable in its new role.”
Notes for editors
1. Implementing The Future of Rail: proposed modifications to Network Rail’s network licence is available from the ORR website at http://www.rail-reg.gov.uk/upload/pdf/224.pdf and also available from the ORR Librarian, Sue MacSwan, 1 Waterhouse Square, 138–142 Holborn, London EC1N 2TQ, tel: 020 7282 2001, fax: 020 7282 2045, e-mail: rail.library@orr.gsi.gov.uk.
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