Improved compensation package in the pipeline for FCC customers (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

St Albans District Council hold talks with First Capital Connect

11:49am Friday 15th January 2010 in Columnists By Manisha Mistry

BOSSES at First Capital Connect, which has recently come under fire for its poor service, have confirmed an improved compensation package for its customers.

Larry Heyman, a representative for the rail company, met councillors at St Albans District Council this week after being invited to respond to concerns raised by residents.

Councillors sitting on the overview and scrutiny public services panel hit out at the severely disrupted service caused by the dispute with drivers over pay and overtime and also the problems faced by commuters during the bad weather conditions.

FCC confirmed at the meeting on Wednesday, January 13, that it will propose a revised and improved compensation offer to its service users over the next few days.

Councillor Beric Read, chairman of the district council's overview and scrutiny panel, said: “Residents are very angry about the poor service they have received. We hope we will see a rapid improvement in the next few days and also look forward to hearing about First Capital Connect's improved compensation package and communication plan.”

The Review revealed this week that rail bosses at FCC and trains drivers have reached an agreement over its long-running pay dispute.

Members of the train drivers' union, Aslef, accepted a revised pay offer hopefully signalling an end to the problems.

Are you eligible for compensation and what are your hopes of an improved offer? Tell us below.