Arriva has assumed full control of operating the London Overground suburban rail network, where more than 180 million journeys are taken every year.
This number is expected to increase further as the network integrates lines north of London.
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Following a competitive bidding process, Arriva secured the contract in March this year to operate the London Overground network, which has operated in a joint venture over the past nine years.
Arriva said it will work with Transport for London (TfL) to further improve the transport network.
Arriva UK trains division managing director Chris Burchell said: “London Overground has been a huge success story since its launch in 2007 and we are excited to be given the opportunity to operate the network through its next crucial phase.
“The network is vital to maintaining a functioning, well-connected city, which is why expansion of routes into places like Barking Riverside and the electrification of the line between Gospel Oak and Barking presents a next step in the network’s continued integration.
“We look forward to working closely with Transport for London to deliver world-class performance and customer service levels in years to come.”
The new seven-and-a-half-year concession will be operated by Arriva London Rail.
Arriva currently operates rail and bus services in 14 countries, having taken over the newly rebranded Northern franchise in April this year.
The London Overground is a suburban network of rail services managed by TfL and was launched in 2007 to boost connections between areas outside of central London.
Image: A London Overground class 378 train at Canonbury. Photo: courtesy of Sunil060902.
