Better Transport

We're working to improve train journeys.

Trains fares are too expensive, and services are often overcrowded, while running too infrequently to stations that are often hard to reach without a car. 

Train service is an excellent alternative to driving, but we need to be able to leave our cars at home.  Good rail policy would help us to tackle climate change and reduce traffic, thereby improving our lives, our communities and our environment.

Strong Government action is required now

Hundreds of companies are involved in our rail network, making it hard to know who to turn to for better train service.  Ultimately we need to look to the Government to provide the leadership, framework and support to enable rail companies to improve our rail network.

Here are our top priorities to improve train travel:

• Trains need to be cheaper and fares less complex

Above-inflation fare increases and a fare system that is complicated and unjust is unfair to passengers and must be changed.  

• Overcrowding needs to be tackled

The Government needs a clear plan to tackle overcrowding by expanding services, not pricing people off trains. It must introduce the new trains promised in 2007's rail White Paper as soon as possible, and reopen rail lines

• It needs to be easier to take the train

We need better ticketing systems, and more accessible stations, which are easier to get to by bus or bike. Passengers need a seven-day railway: fewer weekend line closures, with some lines working while work is done on others, should be the norm.

• Rail operator costs need to be brought down

Saving money means more money for investment, and better services for passengers. Yet since 1997, the cost of running the rail network has trebled. Rail companies must be held accountable and run more efficiently, rather than just making passengers pay more. 

• Trains must be a part of strategic plans

Better links between our train network, housing and retail developments is a planning necessity.  High density development results in high rail use, as we outlined in a consultation response about rail safeguarding in December 2008. (pdf, 14k)

• Rail's environmental record needs to improve

Environmental strategies must be a mandatory element of franchise bids. Trains would be even greener if all railway lines and trains were run on green electricity.

You are part of the solution

While the Government needs to do a great deal, there are ways you can help to improve trains:

• If you want to improve your local train service, read our online guides.
• If you want to cut the price of fares, join our fares campaign
• If you agree rail improvements are needed, support us.