News

Train operators in public ownership across the UK are making bold strides in transforming rail travel for passengers, with significant investments in new fleets that reflect a commitment to long-term service improvement.

A promising initial trial to deliver medical packages on passenger services is planned to be extended and expanded.

Alex Hynes has been appointed as the new chief executive of Department for Transport Operator Limited (DFTO) to lead the next phase in the transition to Great British Railways.

From Manchester to Margate, colleagues from all seven publicly owned train operators journeyed to more than 70 stations across the UK to meet customers and other staff raising awareness of violence against women and girls.

Following publication of the government’s Accessibility Roadmap last week, train operators in public ownership are highlighting how they are already turning that vision into reality.

Landmark legislation that will transform Britain’s railways has been introduced, paving the way for a simpler, more reliable network which puts passengers before profits.

The number of employees regularly commuting to the workplace continues to rise, with a number of train operators in public ownership reporting a rise in the number of season tickets sold.

South Eastern Railway are deploying the ‘Sand Rover’ 4x4 for the first time on their network to keep vital aviation fuel moving.

SWR are working closely with Network Rail on passenger trains fitted with reactive sand and water applicators.

Meanwhile, Northern are trialling new technology that fires dry ice pellets at leaves to freeze and blast them off the tracks,

Greater Anglia's rail services will become the third to enter public ownership on Sunday 12 October 2025.

LNER, Northern, TransPennine Express and Southeastern all provide ‘Friendly Wi-Fi’ networks

Network Rail are also signed up to the shared safety standard that blocks access to inappropriate content

The Friendly Wi-Fi stamp provides passengers, families and parents with confidence that only safe internet can be accessed while on-board and at stations.

The next three train operating companies whose services will transfer into public ownership, as part of the government’s landmark overhaul of the railways, have been confirmed.

England's publicly owned train operators hit 80% usage of digital tickets.

Pay As You Go ticketing, improved customer experience on the train operator’s booking tools and the popularity of digital products such as barcode season tickets drives change.

Modernising fares and ticketing makes it simpler and easier for customers to find, buy and store the best value ticket.