The DfT’s consultation about the new rail franchise which serves southeast London and Kent is over proposals for the new franchise which will begin in December 2018.  Due to election purdah the consultation has now been extended until 30 June 2017.

In particular the DfT have floated the idea that all services on the Blackheath line should only run to Cannon Street which would mean no more direct services to Charing Cross or Victoria from Blackheath.  This consultation runs until 23 May and more details are given in the May 2017 issue of Westcombe News.  Meanwhile the document can be downloaded on this link:

South Eastern Rail Franchise Consultation Document

Further details and how to respond can be found on the DfT page Future of South East Rail Services

Comments on this consultation can be sent to BetterSouthEastern@dft.gsi.gov.uk by 11.45pm on 30th June 2017.

What conditions the DfT attaches to the franchise on service levels, rolling stock, station staffing, and ticketing are of crucial importance to passengers. This consultation provides an opportunity to make the case for extra capacity, improved access for people with disabilities, better regulated evening services and improved communications.