SNCF Voyageurs Wins Contract to Operate Pays-de-la-Loire TER Network

SNCF Voyageurs, a subsidiary of SNCF, has won a contract worth 100 million euros for the operation of the first batch of the Pays-de-la-Loire TER network. The region has chosen to open up the network to competition in order to increase its rail offer. This is the fourth batch of TER open to competition awarded to SNCF Voyageurs, following similar contracts in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur region and Hauts-de-France.

The contract will allow for an increase in the supply of trains in the region by 26%. The region had received five offers for the contract, including one from a subsidiary of the Caisse des dépôts et consignation (CDC) and one from a subsidiary of the RATP. The contract also includes the transfer of 377 SNCF agents to the subsidiary and the construction of a maintenance workshop estimated to cost 40 million euros.

The decision to open up the railway to competition has faced opposition from the left, environmentalists, and RN, who denounce the competition and the cost of the contract. However, the president of the region, Christelle Morançais, defended the decision, stating that it aligns with the strategy committed by the majority. She emphasized that opening up to competition will result in more supply, more services, and more ecological transition.

The first contract will cover the operation of nine lines of the Aléop network, including tram-train and sud-Loire lines. The region also aims to improve connections with the TGV by 26% and plans to increase the supply of trains by 33% by 2030 after opening the two other batches to competition.

This contract marks a significant step in the region’s efforts to enhance its rail infrastructure and provide better transportation options for its residents.

What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of introducing competition in the rail sector for the Pays-de-la-Loire region?

SNCF Voyageurs, a subsidiary of SNCF, has secured a 100 million euro contract for the operation of the first segment of the Pays-de-la-Loire TER network. The region’s decision to introduce competition in the rail sector aims to expand its services. SNCF Voyageurs has previously won similar contracts in Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur and Hauts-de-France.

Under the new contract, the region’s train services will increase by 26%. The region received five offers for the contract, including one from a subsidiary of the CDC and one from a subsidiary of the RATP. Additionally, the contract includes the transfer of 377 SNCF employees to the subsidiary and the construction of a maintenance workshop estimated at 40 million euros.

Opposition has been raised by the left-wing, environmentalists, and RN, who criticize the competition and the cost of the contract. However, the region’s president, Christelle Morançais, defended the decision, stating that it aligns with the majority’s strategy. She emphasized that competition will lead to more supply, improved services, and a transition towards a more environmentally friendly system.

The initial contract involves the operation of nine lines of the Aléop network, including tram-train and sud-Loire lines. The region also aims to enhance its connections with the TGV by 26% and plans to increase train services by 33% by 2030, once the two remaining segments are opened to competition.

This contract represents a significant step towards improving the region’s rail infrastructure and providing better transportation options for its residents.