The Leeds, Lancaster & Morecmabe CRP (The Bentham Line) has issued a press release ahead of the start of the new Northern rail franchise.
In the release Gerald Townson, Chair of the CRP, looks forward to the new franchise which is to be operated by Arriva Rail North Ltd. saying; “We look forward to working with Arriva, during the new franchise, to help promote the services on the line and further develop links with the communities served by the line.” He goes on to say that; “New rolling stock will be introduced which will allow us to say goodbye by 2019 to the outmoded four-wheeled Pacer diesel units which have ‘nodded’ along the line for 30 years.”
Rod Tickner, CRP Press Officer, has nothing but praise for outgoing franchisees Northern rail Ltd. saying; “Over the last eleven years with Northern Rail, a great deal has been achieved beyond what was originally meant to be a steady state franchise with no growth.” He added; “Northern Rail has positively and consistently supported the CRP and its projects and we would like to record our appreciation for all that has been achieved on the Bentham Line and elsewhere.”