Industry: Network Rail needs to be split and sold
NETWORK RAIL should be split up and sold off to help raise cash for the Treasury, while train operators should be handed more power, according to new proposals by an industry body.
A paper issued by the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) to Sir Roy McNulty, who is conducting a value for money review of the rail network, said the moves would save the government up to £500m.
It recommends splitting Network Rail, the owner of British tracks and stations, into regional parts and then selling them.
ATOC is also suggesting that train operators should be handed more power to ensure better alignment of track and train and to put operational decision making in one place.
McNulty’s report is due next year.