The Railtrack era formally comes to an end today when Network Rail - the government-run body - takes control of the UK's railways.

Forum Response: ATOC

George Muir, director general for ATOC, told ePolitix.com: "We welcome the advent of Network Rail and call on the new organisation to rapidly implement a programme of upgrading, renewal, and maintenance of Britain's railway infrastructure.

"You could say that Railtrack has been living in temporary accommodation. Now, they are moving into a proper house, they can get back to a properly organised way of planning and delivering maintenance.

"We need Network Rail to establish a clear and unbureaucratic management structure and adopt a cohesive national strategy and plan that brings the upgrading, renewal and maintenance improvements to give Britain a modern railway infrastructure fit for the 21st century."

Forum Response: Virgin Trains

Chris Green, chief executive for Virgin Trains, told ePolitix.com: "Network Rail can be assured of our support at these difficult times.

"We are pleased that John Armitt will maintain the continuity with the transition from Railtrack to Network Rail at this important time for Virgin Trains."