Network Rail has had a good year, especially in the context of corporate responsibility. We have continued to drive cost efficiency within the business because we understand how providing a good railway - an affordable and sustainable rail service as part of an integrated transport system fit for the 21st century - contributes to the success of the country. This helps to increase productivity and improve the quality of life and the environment within Britain.
This year, we have seen all our key measures of success achieved. And we now have record numbers of people making record numbers of journeys on record numbers of trains. And punctuality, passenger satisfaction and safety performance are also at record levels.
But we also face new challenges. The economic downturn has seen some parts of our sector struggle. In some areas there has been growth in the passenger numbers – especially long distance, but in others the growth has been flat or, in one or two areas, has declined. And the economic climate has hit the freight business quite dramatically.
Yet despite this, we see universal support for continued investment in rail. The benefits to the country and to the economy are widely understood and major schemes such as Airdrie-Bathgate in Scotland, and Thameslink in the South East, are well into construction. And new schemes are being discussed – such as Crossrail and a new high-speed railway.
Corporate responsibility remains a passion of mine.
Former Chief Executive, Iain CoucherCorporate responsibility is all part of how we deliver this ever improving service. This year we were delighted to be awarded gold in the Business in the Community Corporate Responsibility Index and to take home two Big Tick awards. It’s great to receive this recognition for our continued investment in our people, and our positive impact on the community.
A great example of our ongoing commitment to corporate responsibility was our 2010 ‘Jobs for the Girls’ campaign, designed to address the perceptions of the rail industry amongst women. This campaign helped contribute to an 84 per cent increase in female applicants for our Advanced Apprenticeship Scheme – a fantastic result!
Another milestone this year was obtaining planning permission for our new National Centre in Milton Keynes. This will be a modern, efficient and environmentally friendly office, designed to bring together key activities including teams from finance, property, asset management, and planning. Working with the local community in Milton Keynes, we intend to create a world-class facility, built to reflect the latest thinking in green buildings.
In 2010/11 we will continue on the journey of sustainability, encouraging our people to make the right decisions - sustainable decisions. I believe that this is good for the Company but more importantly, is good for our people, our communities and our planet.
Iain Coucher
Former Chief Executive
June 2010