St Albans News

St Albans councillors meet with FCC and Network Rail

By Manisha Mistry

4:29pm Friday 27th January 2012

BOSSES from First Capital Connect and Network Rail were told by the district council more improvements need to be made on its Thameslink service, despite boasting about recent successes.

The companies faced a committee at the council offices yesterday where they were questioned about complaints from customers over delays and poor communication during disruption.

Despite speaking about improvements being made to communication levels, including more information being given to drivers to update customers when problems arise, councillors still felt more could be done.

One of the issues raised was the problems passengers faced when services on the Thameslink line are cancelled. Customers complain there is not enough information on alternative routes and tickets are not always accepted on other operators.

FCC said it is in the process of putting together a leaflet which will be available at stations, with information for commuters on alternative routes.

One councillor suggested interactive touch screens should be implemented with data on alternative route.

FCC said a recent survey revealed satisfaction of the service had improved and punctuality of trains had also improved.

Chairman of the committee Councillor Robert Donald said he would like to hear from FCC and Network Rail in September next year.

Follow our coverage of last night's meeting on Twitter: @Review_Eagle

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