Train Company Performance

Our performance is heavily influenced by Network Rail to whom the majority of delays are attributed. The punctuality and reliability of our services is assessed against Public Performance Measures (PPM) by the Department for Transport. The PPMs combine figures for punctuality and reliability into a single performance rating and measure the performance of individual trains against their planned timetable. The data is published quarterly. By expressing this data as a moving annual average we can measure the overall year-on-year performance of our operating companies.

The graph below shows a generally rising trend in all First rail operating companies between 2005 and 2007 with public performance measures in Q4 2007 ranging from 83 to 90

We continue to show strong progress in performance across our franchises. Hull Trains maintains its position as one of the best performing train companies in relation to reliability and punctuality, scoring consistently over 90%.

First ScotRail, First TransPennine Express and First Capital Connect are close to achieving a performance of 90% PPM. They have shown consistent performance improvements during the last two years. In First TransPennine Express the vehicle replacement programme has been an important factor. First ScotRail continues to invest in upgrading rolling stock and to work with Network Rail on infrastructure improvements.

First Great Western also continues to achieve year-on-year improvements in performance. This is despite an eight-week dip this year due to problems with the new timetable (now resolved), fleet availability and infrastructure problems. This franchise faces major challenges from ageing infrastructure and the temporary speed restrictions they impose.

We continue to invest in upgrading the vehicle fleet. We have re-engineered our high-speed train fleet with more reliable, efficient and cleaner engines and planned a programme to upgrade other rolling stock. We are also working with Network Rail to improve the infrastructure. Amongst other developments, we have upgraded the line speed between Reading and London on the relief line and established an integrated control centre in which Network Rail and First collaborate to improve the management of disruptions.

As a non-franchised company GB Railfreight is not monitored against PPM targets. However, the company has an unrivalled record with locomotive availability and service reliability running at around 99%.

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