Today, the UK Government has unveiled plans for a landmark Rail Reform Bill aimed at transforming the country’s railway system.[1] The proposed legislation will introduce Great British Railways (GBR), a new unified body designed to bring track and train together, ensuring more reliable services and improving passenger experiences.
Why is Britain’s railway system being rewired?
This set of reforms seek to rewire the railway system, eliminating outdated processes that have led to frequent disruptions and poor service. The Government argues these proposed changes will create a streamlined, passenger-first approach that simplifies travel while promoting growth and innovation.[2]
How will a new rail watchdog hold operators accountable?
A key element of the reform is the establishment of an independent passenger watchdog. This new body will ensure GBR addresses the most pressing passenger concerns, including:
- Improving communication and journey information
- Tackling confusing rail fares and ticketing
- Investigating persistent service failures
- Holding operators accountable for poor performance
The watchdog will have the authority to set clear service standards, arbitrate passenger complaints, and work with the Transport Secretary and GBR to enforce higher performance levels across the rail network.[3]
What does this mean for growth and investment in railways?
As part of the Government’s Plan for Change, the reform aims to drive investment and create jobs by fostering public-private sector collaboration. GBR will work closely with businesses to support the rail supply chain, modernise infrastructure, and enhance the long-term sustainability of the network. This includes a renewed focus on rail freight, ensuring long-term planning for rolling stock, and allowing open access services that improve connectivity without excessive taxpayer costs.
What do industry leaders and regional mayors say?
The reform has garnered widespread support from political leaders and industry figures:
Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, emphasised: ‘Passengers have put up with broken railways for far too long. This landmark reform will sweep away decades of failure, creating a Great British Railways passengers can rely on.’[4]
Laura Shoaf, Chair of Shadow Great British Railways, stated: ‘GBR will fundamentally change our railways, delivering growth, connections, and opportunities across the country.’[5]
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, highlighted the opportunity for regional integration: ‘This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to overhaul how the railways are run – creating a service that puts passengers first, with more reliable trains and simpler fares and tickets.’[6]
What changes are being made to ticketing and fares?
Ahead of GBR’s establishment, the Government is already rolling out Pay As You Go ticketing, allowing passengers greater flexibility in travel. The initiative is set to expand in Greater Manchester and the West Midlands, aligning with regional efforts to integrate transport systems.[7]
What does the future hold for Britain’s railways?
With GBR set to revolutionise the UK’s railway system, this ambitious reform aims to provide a seamless, reliable, and passenger-focused railway network. By bringing track and train together under one entity, the Government argues passengers can expect more accountability, better service, and improved connectivity across the country.[8]
How can you have your say on the future of rail?
The Government is inviting public and industry feedback through an eight-week consultation.[9] This consultation will explore key issues such as:
- How GBR should operate to maximise efficiency
- The role of devolved leaders in shaping regional rail services
- Best practices for integrating transport networks across the UK
The A Railway Fit for Britain’s Future consultation is now open and will run for eight weeks.[10] To have your say on the future of British rail, visit the Government’s consultation website and contribute your feedback today. This consultation closes at
11:59pm on 15 April 2025.
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[1] Department for Transport, New rail watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold railway to account, 18 February 2025, Link
[2] Department for Transport, New rail watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold railway to account, 18 February 2025, Link
[3] Department for Transport, New rail watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold railway to account, 18 February 2025, Link
[4] Department for Transport, New rail watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold railway to account, 18 February 2025, Link
[5] Department for Transport, New rail watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold railway to account, 18 February 2025, Link
[6] Department for Transport, New rail watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold railway to account, 18 February 2025, Link
[7] Department for Transport, New rail watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold railway to account, 18 February 2025, Link
[8] Department for Transport, New rail watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold railway to account, 18 February 2025, Link
[9] Department for Transport, New rail watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold railway to account, 18 February 2025, Link
[10] Department for Transport, New rail watchdog to give passengers a voice and hold railway to account, 18 February 2025, Link
