§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to improve the requirements for facilities at stations beyond those contained in existing franchise contracts. [158828]
§ Mr. HillOne of the aims of franchise replacement is to secure improvements in facilities at stations. The Government have also made available £105 million which is distributed through the Rail Passengers Partnership scheme. The scheme is designed to encourage rail initiatives at a local level and station improvements would be eligible for consideration. In addition, there is a £225 million programme to enhance passenger facilities at stations over the next five years.