Plans to overhaul the rail network have been announced as the Transport Secretary reveals South Western Railway’s services will be the first to transfer into public ownership next year.
The move comes just days after one of the Government’s first major pieces of legislation, the Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act 2024, received Royal Assent, paving the way for a major shake-up of Britain’s railways.
The Government says that the transition to a publicly owned railway will improve reliability and boost growth by encouraging more people to use the railway.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said that the complex system of private rail operators “has too often failed its users” and returning the services to public control will “create a reliable rail network that puts customers first.”
The new publicly run services will be managed by DfT Operator Limited previously known as DfT Operator of Last Resort Holdings Limited (DOHL), whose functions will eventually be integrated into Great British Railways. The organisation will focus on improving operations and financial sustainability, and transforming Britain’s railways into a more reliable, affordable, accessible system.
While the announcement marks a major change, the Government says its first priority is ensuring the transition process is thorough and delivers the best outcomes for passengers. Allowing several months lead-in to each transfer will ensure there will be no adverse impact on passengers during this time, who will still be able to purchase their tickets as before, with railway staff assisting as usual.
Two other rail companies also to be renationalised in 2025 are C2C and Anglia.
Image credit: Steve Bulley