Transport for LondonWorking with National Rail
Skip to navigation << Back to indexTfL Rail Services was set up in July 2001, but as part of a larger change in culture and remit, the Mayor announced a new title in February 2003 - TfL London Rail. This reflects its new position, working alongside the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA), to make significant improvements to London's ailing rail network.
The powers of the Mayor and TfL to change London's railways are limited, and there are strong arguments that London deserves the same treatment as some other major world cities where a single city authority plans, specifies, funds and decides priorities on rail services.
The new London Rail Partnership Agreement with the SRA is a step in that direction. It has already yielded significant progress in major new projects like Crossrail and the East London Line Extension.
Co-operation with the SRA and Train Operating Companies have achieved good progress on the development of a 'Metro' system on key routes around London. This provides passengers with more frequent and upgraded services in the medium term. A pilot system in south London will be launched in September 2003.
Other work in hand with the SRA includes the development of rail freight services and improvements to rail franchise agreements to secure a better deal for passengers. TfL London Rail also maintains close links with a range of stakeholders to share ideas and to focus attention on the needs of London and its rail passengers. It works with other parts of TfL and the rail industry generally to ensure the integration of London's railways with other transport systems and the delivery of realistic solutions to passengers.
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