Overview
- First Rail London has been selected as preferred operator to replace Arriva, with a standstill period to December 18 and a formal handover on May 3, 2026.
- The concession runs for eight years with a two‑year option and has been reported at about £3 billion.
- From May 2026, peak‑hour changes include extra trains on the Mildmay line and a Clapham Junction–Shepherd’s Bush shuttle.
- From December 2026, services on the Windrush core will increase to 18 trains per hour, alongside Mildmay infrastructure works and upgraded help points, CCTV and passenger information.
- First will manage station retail units and retain income under new incentives, while the RMT criticises the decision not to bring the service in‑house.