Chief executive of train operators in public ownership outlines ‘real world’ benefits Great British Railways will bring to everyday passengers
Great British Railways (GBR) will put passengers back at the heart of the railways, delivering a safe, sustainable and high-performing network that delivers value for money and a consistently better experience for customers, according to DfT Operator (DFTO) chief executive, Alex Hynes.
Speaking at the annual rail industry event, the George Bradshaw Address, Mr Hynes said unifying track and train as one organisation would reduce cancellations, improve accessibility and simplify ticketing.
Aligned incentives around service, reliability and long-term value, rather than shareholder return would be a priority focus for train operators.
During the panel discussion, Mr Hynes said it is integration and joined‑up working that will actually deliver greater accountability within GBR.
Under the current system, concerns must be raised separately with the train operator and Network Rail because no one person is in charge. Integrated business units change this by putting one leader in charge of both track and train.
Mr Hynes said: "The quicker we start acting as one railway, the quicker we can start delivering the changes passengers really want, like more reliable services, simpler ticketing and improved trains and stations.
“Integration delivers on our vision of creating a sustainable, thriving railway that thinks as one, to encourage more people to access more places and opportunities so the whole country can prosper.”
On the subject of growth, Mr Hynes says: “Growth isn’t just an aspiration; we’re already seeing it in action. In December, train operators in public ownership added more than 76,000 extra seats per week - including 60,000 on the East Coast Main Line – as part of the new timetable. That additional capacity is driving revenue and providing a better service for customers.”
Mr Hynes’ comments followed a keynote speech from the transport secretary, Heidi Alexander MP, who outlined her vision for the rail sector for the year ahead.
On the panel alongside the transport secretary and Mr Hynes were Jeremy Westlake, the chief executive of Network Rail and Maggie Simpson OBE, the director general of Rail Freight Group.
There are now eight train operators in public ownership: c2c, Greater Anglia, LNER, Northern, Southeastern, South Western Railway, TransPennine Express and WM Trains (who operate London Northwestern Railway and West Midlands Railway services).
The next operator to move into public ownership is Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) on Sunday 31 May 2026.