The consequences of Transport for London’s (TfL’s) failed contract with Bombardier have been heavily criticised by The London Assembly. The Transport Committee is alarmed that in settling the signalling contract for sub-surface lines, TfL actually paid Bombardier over £80 million.
Caroline Pidgeon MBE AM, Chair of the Transport Committee said;
“How is it possible that Bombardier’s woeful failure to deliver was rewarded with a fat cheque? TfL must ensure no more ‘bad’ contracts are allowed to happen and put in place financial consequences for contractors that fail to deliver. Surely that’s just common sense. We want to know how TfL will improve the terms of future contracts. We do welcome progress on Tube improvements but also have concerns about the potential for complacency.”
The Committee’s letter[1] to The Mayor points out that although TfL has successfully reduced Tube delays and delivered upgrade work in recent years, the Tube is far from the most reliable metro system in the world, and the upgrade programme is not yet completed.
The Transport Committee’s suggested actions include:
When publishing final details of the future staffing levels at each Tube station, TfL should show how they have taken into account the current number and different types of passengers using each Tube station.
TfL should explain the anticipated impact on Tube reliability of the move to 24-hour service on some Underground lines at weekends from 2015 and the plans to mitigate potential noise pollution for local residents.
TfL should provide details of the current expected timings for the introduction of ‘driverless’ Tube trains and how lessons are being learned from other metros, including Paris and New York, about how to implement such changes effectively.
The Transport Committee also questions whether The Independent Investment Programme Advisory Group (IIPAG)[2] is up to the job.
Notes for Editors:
The Future of the Tube Response Letter (attached)
The Independent Investment Programme Advisory Group (IIPAG) is the group established to provide independent assurance and expert advice to the Mayor on the delivery of TfL’s investment programme. This includes all maintenance, renewal, upgrades and major projects, but not operational issues or the activities of Crossrail Ltd. The IIPAG considers issues of economy, efficiency and value for money in preparing its advice.
London Assembly Transport Committee
Caroline Pidgeon MBE AM, Chair of the Transport Committee, is available for interview – see contact details below.
As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.