Rail passengers across England and Wales will see a 4.6% rise in ticket prices starting Sunday, making travel more expensive for commuters and occasional travelers alike. The price hike also extends to most discount railcards, which will increase by £5, affecting students, families, and pensioners.
The UK government has justified the rise, citing the financial challenges facing the railway industry. However, transport campaigners argue that this decision contrasts sharply with the government’s move to extend the fuel duty freeze for motorists, leaving train users to bear the brunt of rising costs.
Biggest Fare Increase in Three Years
This fare hike is only the second time since 2013 that the government has raised rail fares above the rate of inflation, with the last instance being in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. London Underground and rail services in the capital will also increase fares by an average of 4.6%, although bus fares will remain frozen.
Government officials have defended the decision, noting that while fares are rising, the increase is slightly below the average earnings growth rate of 5.9%. However, for many passengers, the rising costs are already a major burden.
Commuters on key routes will feel the impact, with:
• Brighton to London season tickets exceeding £5,000
• York to Leeds passes surpassing £3,000
• Canterbury to London commuters paying over £7,000 annually
Meanwhile, rail fares in Scotland will rise by 3.8% from April 1, while the Welsh government has opted to match England’s 4.6% hike.
Government Defends Move Amid Passenger Frustration
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander acknowledged public frustration over rising fares, especially given persistent delays and cancellations.
“I understand that passengers are frustrated rail fares keep rising despite unacceptable levels of delays and cancellations,” she said. “We inherited a railway that was not fit for purpose, and I know it will take time for trust to be restored.”
She added that the government’s plan to nationalize key parts of the rail network under Great British Railways would prioritize passenger needs and improve service reliability.
Campaigners Slam Fare Increases as a ‘Punishment for Going Green’
Critics argue that the fare hike disincentivizes train travel, making public transport less attractive compared to driving. Silviya Barrett of the Campaign for Better Transport called the decision “yet another blow” for passengers, especially with railcard prices also increasing.
Meanwhile, Transport Focus CEO Alex Robertson highlighted a growing disconnect between fares and service quality, stating:
“Our research shows there is a clear mismatch between ticket prices and the service people expect to receive for what they have paid. This needs to change.”
Campaign group Railfuture’s Bruce Williamson echoed these concerns, saying:
“Passengers are still being punished for going green. If they can find the money to freeze fuel duty for motorists, they can afford to freeze rail fares too.”
With passenger dissatisfaction growing, the pressure is on the government to improve rail services and justify the rising costs before the next fare review.
