Arriva Danmark has extended its contract to operate the Vestbanen train operation in western Jutland.

Chairman of Sydtrafik and Vestbanen Poul Rosendahl and Arriva Danmark managing director Thomas Øster signed the new six-year agreement to operate trains between Varde and Nr. Nebel.

To help attract new passengers from outlying areas the Region of Southern Denmark has invested DKK47 million (€6.3m) on upgrading the railway line and DKK58 million (€7.8m) on two new Lint 41 trains which will be painted in Arriva livery.

As part of the contract Arriva Danmark is responsible for maintaining the tracks, signals, platforms and station buildings and traffic management.

Arriva Danmark managing director Thomas Øster, said: “It is a very forward-looking agreement. For the first time we can explore using our Vestbanen train fleet more effectively to complement our existing rail services in central and Western Jutland.

“This approach means we will be able to provide our passengers with onward services to Esbjerg without having to change trains in Varde, which is excellent news for passengers.

“The combination of investment in new trains and infrastructure by the transport authority and Arriva’s experience in delivering high quality train services will ensure Jutland’s rail network continues to grow.”

Arriva has been responsible for the Vestbanen operation since the summer of 2002. The new contract, which has an annual value of some DKK 25 million, will start on 1 July 2012 and run until 2018 with a possible extension for another two years. The new trains will enter service with the start of the contract.