Arriva Danmark extend rail contract in Jutland

Arriva Danmark has extended its contract to operate theVestbanen train operation in western Jutland.

Chairman of Sydtrafik and Vestbanen Poul Rosendahl and ArrivaDanmark managing director Thomas Øster signed the newsix-year agreement to operate trains between Varde and Nr.Nebel.

To help attract new passengers from outlying areas the Region ofSouthern Denmark has invested DKK47 million (€6.3m) onupgrading the railway line and DKK58 million (€7.8m) on twonew Lint 41 trains which will be painted in Arriva livery.

As part of the contract Arriva Danmark is responsible formaintaining the tracks, signals, platforms and station buildingsand traffic management.

Arriva Danmark managing director Thomas Øster, said: "Itis a very forward-looking agreement. For the first time we canexplore using our Vestbanen train fleet more effectively tocomplement our existing rail services in central and WesternJutland.

“This approach means we will be able to provide ourpassengers with onward services to Esbjerg without having to changetrains in Varde, which is excellent news for passengers. 

“The combination of investment in new trains andinfrastructure by the transport authority and Arriva’sexperience in delivering high quality train services will ensureJutland’s rail network continues to grow.”

Arriva has been responsible for the Vestbanen operation sincethe summer of 2002. The new contract, which has an annual value ofsome DKK 25 million, will start on 1 July 2012 and run until 2018with a possible extension for another two years. The new trainswill enter service with the start of the contract.