On 18 July 2007 we published our ‘Way Forward’ document setting out how we proposed to make our criteria and procedures (C&Ps) relating to our approval of track access contracts more focused and effective. This included transferring responsibility for most track access consultations to Network Rail and adopting a more proportionate approach to our review of applications. We have now implemented our main proposals.
Since January 2008 Network Rail has been responsible for consulting on most proposed track access agreements and has a section on its website for track access consultations.
Working with Network Rail and the C&Ps Industry Working Group (IWG), we have reviewed the implementation and effectiveness of the new arrangements following the Subsidiary Change Date 2008. Both we and IWG consider that the transition has gone smoothly and no major problems have arisen. We and IWG will continue to monitor this in the run up to the December 2008 timetable change. If anyone does have feedback on the new arrangements, they should contact the track access team.
In June 2008 we issued new general approvals for passenger and freight track access contracts. These increase the types of amendment that parties can make to their track access contracts without the need for ORR's specific approval. These should reduce the timescales for making those amendments and thus enable train companies to respond more quickly to the needs of their markets.
In late summer 2008 we expect to issue a unified version of the C&Ps document, combining previously separate guidance for obtaining the approval of passenger and freight track access contracts. This will include all policy changes arising from the C&Ps review. It will also contain better guidance on completing the model contracts. In the meantime, the existing C&Ps documents for passenger and freight continue to apply, alongside the Industry code of practice for track access consultations and guidance on the level of scrutiny that we expect to give to agreed track access applications.
We will also be issuing an overarching document providing information on all parts of the regulatory framework relevant to those who wish to start railway operations in Britain.