rki.news

London, UK — The UK government has announced a freeze on regulated rail fares in England, aiming to curb inflation and reduce everyday travel costs for commuters. The freeze applies only to services operated by England-based train companies and includes season tickets, some off-peak returns, and flexible city travel tickets, which make up about 45% of all fares in England, Wales, and Scotland.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized that investment in the rail network will continue, noting that the policy is fully funded and will not impact long-term infrastructure upgrades. She highlighted that regulated fares generally influence unregulated fares, which may still rise slightly but typically track similar trends.
The Rail Delivery Group welcomed the move, calling it “good news for customers” and reaffirming its commitment to upcoming railway reforms to benefit passengers. The freeze is expected to save commuters on more expensive routes over £300 annually and marks the first full fare freeze since the privatization of British Rail in 1996.
The government also reiterated plans to establish Great British Railways, a public body set to unify rail management, improve standards, and gradually reduce annual blanket fare increases. The measure forms part of wider efforts to rebuild the rail system and support affordability for daily travellers across the country.