'Once-in-a-generation opportunity' - Update on massive overhaul of how passengers buy train tickets
A new state-owned company will run Britain's railways under plans being presented in Parliament, meaning train passengers will be able to buy all their tickets through a "one-stop-shop" app.
Reforms under the Railways Bill - under which the firm Great British Railways (GBR) will be created - include making buying tickets easier by creating a new GBR website and app, which will replace 14 existing operator platforms.
Tickets would also be available to purchase at all station offices, vending machines or on board trains - for any service - in an effort to streamline services. The Dft says GBR - to be headquartered in Derby, West Mids. - will "create a simpler, more unified railway that delivers easier journeys and offers better value for money"
"Passengers are currently at the mercy of a complex rail system of over 17 different organisations, resulting in complex fares, delayed upgrades, disjointed timetables, and an industry with no single authority in charge," the government department said.
"The Railways Bill will also establish a strengthened passenger watchdog which will be a powerful new voice to investigate poor service and advocate for improvements."
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander added: “Britain deserves a railway that is fit for the future - one that rebuilds the trust of its passengers, regenerates its communities and restores reliability and value for money.
“The introduction of this legislation is a major step towards a rail network that supports Britain’s businesses and delivers for the travelling public – paving the way for economic growth and access to opportunity across the country.”
The bill is also set to give devolved governments and English mayors a larger say in how railways are run in their area. Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said: “The introduction of the Railways Bill to Parliament marks a pivotal moment for rail reform across the country.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make trains more reliable and tickets easier to use, with clearer accountability for passengers and greater confidence in every journey.”
Other commitments include the expansion of the Disabled Persons Railcard – which gives a third off fares – to those with a wider range of disabilities and 'Pay As You Go' and fares trials. A new passenger watchdog will also be introduced, set to represent passengers using rail, bus, tram, coach, and road networks.
South Western Railway, which operates services to London Waterloo, became the first company to be renationalised by the Labour government earlier this year. London North Eastern Railway, which operates on the East Coast Mainline, was nationalised under the Conservatives in 2018 after the previous operator, Virgin Trains East Coast, suffered financial difficulties.
Other companies already nationalised are: Northern, Southeastern, TransPennine Express, c2c, and Greater Anglia. All train companies operated under contract with the Department for Transport are expected to transfer to public ownership by the end of 2027.