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<p>The Government is committed to improving journeys for passengers in the East Midlands,
which is why we are delivering the biggest upgrade of the Midland Main Line route
since it was completed in 1870. Passengers will see modern trains introduced across
the route during the next East Midlands franchise, including a fleet of brand new
bi-mode intercity trains. The upgrade will enable increased passenger capacity and
improved journey times, thereby improving the overall experience for passengers.</p><p>
</p><p>In an extensive public consultation last summer we sought views on the future
of East Midlands rail services to ensure the new franchise delivers the best railway
for passengers, communities and businesses, including how local train services can
be improved to meet current and future needs more effectively.</p><p> </p><p>The consultation
closed on 11 October 2017. All options for rail services in the next franchise are
subject to analysis of the potential benefits and the responses we received to the
consultation. No decisions have yet been made on the rail services that will be specified.
Any outcome will seek to secure the best value for money for the taxpayer and be in
the best interests of rail passengers.</p><p> </p><p>The next East Midlands franchise
is planned to start in August 2019. Invitations to Tender (ITT) are due to be issued
to potential bidders shortly. The ITT will set out the minimum requirements and provide
the baseline that we expect the next franchise to build on.</p>
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