The launch of HS1 chief executive, Nicola Shaw’s report on The Future Shape and Financing of Network Rail, has seen suggested plans for wholesale privatisation and break up ruled out. Instead the report calls for more devolution in the running of the railways, “local flexibility, and autonomy”. Shaw proposed there should be a greater focus on the needs of the train operators and passengers, a sentiment shared by Mark Carne, Network Rail chief executive: “We are committed to putting passengers and customers at the heart of what we do and our devolved business model will put decisions in the routes, closer to the passengers and train companies.”
“I also endorse her desire to see more private finance coming into the railways. I consider that more private money and funding from the people who will benefit from railway improvements is a sensible way to deliver a bigger and better railway.”
For the full report visit: Shaw Report: The Scope
