Powers to transfer undertaking
31.—(1) Network Rail may—
(a)transfer to another person (the “transferee”) its right to construct, maintain, use or operate the authorised works (or any part of them) and such related statutory rights and powers as may be agreed in writing between Network Rail and the transferee; or
(b)grant to another person (the “lessee”) for a period agreed in writing between Network Rail and the lessee the right to construct, maintain, use or operate the authorised works (or any part of them) and such related statutory rights and powers as may be so agreed.
(2) Where an agreement has been made in accordance with paragraph (1) references in this Order to Network Rail, except in paragraph (1), include references to the transferee or lessee.
(3) The exercise by a person of the rights or powers conferred by any enactment by any person in pursuance of any transfer or grant under paragraph (1) is subject to the same restrictions, liabilities and obligations as would apply under this Order if those rights or powers were exercised by Network Rail.
(4) The consent of the Secretary of State is required for the exercise of the powers of paragraph (1).