Train users are being asked to give their views on the Thameslink service offered in St Albans.

The district council has set up a Working Group to help develop the response to a government consultation about the franchise.

The Department for Transport is proposing to combine the Thameslink Southern and Great Northern franchises from September next year.

Councillor Robert Donald, chair of the council’s local services scrutiny committee, said: “The Thameslink service is used by so many of our residents every day and is incredibly important to the continued economic health and growth of our district.

“And yet, when there are problems with the service the results are travelling frustrations, immense inconvenience and real commuting misery.

“With the franchise coming up for renewal, now is the opportunity to try to get the service improved for commuters and visitors alike.”

The group, which is made up of local politicians, will consider what should be included in the specification for the new franchise, which will be responsible for rail services across Hertfordshire.

Councillor Donald added: “The group will look particularly at how the service can be improved in the future.

“It will also consider how the committee’s previous recommendations on passenger communications, compensation policy and car parking charges can be implemented further.”

As part of the group’s work residents are being asked to send in their views and ideas for improvements.

Suggestions should be sent to Catherine Comfort, Scrutiny Support Officer, Civic Centre, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, AL1 3LD by July 24.

Residents can also email their thoughts to scrutiny@stalbans.gov.uk.

The council’s working group are due to meet again later this month.