NXEA Staff To Be Balloted On Strike Action

NXEA staff are to be balloted for industrial action in a row over pay and working conditions.

The RMT union said its members will be asked whether they want to launch a campaign of strikes after accusing NXEA of failing to make any significant offer on pay.

Any strike action is likely to find little sympathy with passengers.

NX Lose East Coast Franchise. Bowker Resigns

In a widely expected move, the government has stripped National Express of its East Coast franchise. As part of the franchising agreement the government has stated that the NXEA and C2C franchises are also at risk and could be taken back to be run by the DfT.

Richard Bowker has resigned as Head of National Express. Ironically, as Head of the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) Bowker awarded the NXEA franchise to National Express.

NXEA Second Lowest in Satisfaction Poll

NXEA has come second from last in a national survey of customer satisfaction carried out by Passenger Focus. NXEA achieved an overall satisfaction rating of 76% against a national average of 81%. Only London Overground scored lower whilst First Capital Connect and Southeastern also scored 76%.

National Express Reject Takeover Bid

Reports in the press are claiming that National Express have rejected a takeover bid from FirstGroup. National Express continue to have problems in reducing a debt pile of £1.2 billion and talks with the government over their failing East Coast franchise are said to be stalled.

Many will remember that FirstGroup ran the successful and much missed Great Eastern franchise prior to National Express taking over the route with the now defunct 'one' branding.

Hot Weather Forecast

Following forecasts of very hot weather this week, NXEA are advising all passengers to carry bottled water whilst travelling.

Speed restrictions may well be imposed to protect the overhead wires in certain areas. These can droop through expansion in the hot weather which in turn can lead them to come down under certain conditions.

Manningtree Car Park - Official Opening

The extension of the car park at Manningtree station is today being officially opened by Bernard Jenkin MP.

Cruise Ships At Harwich

The following Cruise Ships will be visiting Harwich this summer:

Constellation (91,000 tons) - 27th June, 11th & 25th July, 8th & 22nd August, 5th September.

Jewel Of The Seas (90,090 tons) 4th, 16th & 28th July, 9th & 21st August, 2nd September.