Passengers before profits will be aim of new rail legislation

LANDMARK BILL PAVES THE WAY FOR GREAT BRITISH RAILWAYS IN DERBY

- By TELEGRAPH REPORTER

LANDMARK legislation that will transform Britain’s railways is being introduced today, paving the way for a simpler, more reliable network which puts passengers before profits.

The Railways Bill, which will be laid in Parliament today, will create Great British Railways (GBR) - a new publicly owned company which will bring together the management of passenger services and rail infrastructure.

GBR will be accountable to passengers, freight customers and taxpayers and will drive a relentless focus on responding to their needs. Responsible for coordinating the whole network: from track and train, to cost and revenue - GBR will deliver lasting change.

GBR, which will be headquartered in Derby, will create a simpler, more unified railway that delivers easier journeys and offers better value for money. This will include a new one-stop-shop app where passengers can check train times and book tickets.

The Railways Bill will also establish a strengthened passenger watchdog which will be a powerful new voice to investigate poor service and advocate for improvements.

Rail reform is a cornerstone of the Government's Plan for Change, with GBR working hand in hand with the Government's missions to drive growth and opportunity, such as housebuilding, creating jobs and boosting productivity.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “Britain deserves a railway that is fit for the future - one that rebuilds the trust of its passengers, regenerates its communities and restores reliability and value for money.