Rail services across south-east England are set for a major boost under new franchise requirements, Transport Minister Andrew Adonis announced today. Passengers in south London and parts of Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire will benefit from more trains on key lines - particularly in the evenings and over weekends - increased capacity at peak times and improved security on both platforms and trains. This includes significantly increasing the number of key stations staffed at night.

In addition, all trains will be fitted with CCTV, 1,500 extra secure cycling bays and 1,000 extra parking spaces will be provided and stations across the network - including every one in south London - will be refurbished. Andrew Adonis said: "We want all rail passengers to receive an excellent service and that is why we have worked closely with rail user groups such as Passenger focus to develop these requirements.

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"The South Central franchise provides a vital commuter link into London from the South coast and provides important linkages into South Coast towns such as Hastings and Worthing and so it is essential we give passengers access to the best facilities.

"By setting more robust requirements for bidders, we are ensuring future rail passengers have frequent and reliable services that are comfortable and safe."

For the first time bidders will also be instructed to set targets for passenger satisfaction, with fines in place if these are not met. In addition, the provision of new ticketing barriers will mean passengers in South London will be able to use Oyster cards at more stations across the network.

The Department will also fund, and TfL will install, ticket gates at around 14 stations in south London before September 2009. Stations such as Peckham Rye and South Croydon will see ticket gates installed over the coming months to reduce ticketless travel and improve security across the network.

(JM)