EXCLUSIVE: Most train services to and from Sussex should be under new ownership by the end of June.

Govia is close to reaching a deal with existing operators Connex two years ahead of schedule, it was revealed today.

Much-criticised Connex had been contracted to carry on rail services until April 2003.

Govia, anxious to implement improvements, has spent the six months since it was announced French-owned Connex had lost the franchise planning an early takeover.

Complicated negotiations involving taking over trains, staff and ticketing arrangements, and compensation for the assets and any profits during the remaining two years of the contract, are nearly finalised.

The Govia franchise is to cover the next 20 years.

Martin Walter, Govia's group communications director, said: "We are hoping to take over in June. We hope to make an official announcement in the next three or four weeks, but we are still negotiating. We will be taking over the fleet of trains operated by Connex and all staff, and ticketing arrangements. We will honour all existing staff contracts."

Govia, the parent company of Thameslink and the Brighton and Hove Bus Company, plans to rename its Sussex routes New Southern Railway.

It plans a multi-million pound investment over the next 20 years with 1,000 new coaches and an electrification programme on the London-Uckfield line.

Mr Walter warned changes would not happen overnight.

The changeover means Connex will no longer run trains on its SouthCentral routes to Sussex in and out of Victoria and London Bridge, which includes the Brighton line. But it will continue to operate its South Eastern routes through Kent to Sussex, including Hastings, until that contract runs out in 2011. Connex also confirmed the aim of a June changeover date.

Spokesman Dave Ewart said: "We are working towards a date in June for practical reasons. Continued uncertainty does not benefit rail passengers."