Heavy rail is critical to so much of what city regions are trying to achieve – from meeting ambitious air quality and decarbonisation targets to giving the public the public transport they want and need (one network, one ticket, one identity).
This is why we are one of the biggest investors in the railways – including new trains, services, routes and stations.
Along with other devolved authorities and administrations, we have also taken responsibility for local and regional rail networks – which has resulted in more responsive rail services with more investment, better performance and higher levels of passenger satisfaction.
One in three rail journeys are made on services which have been fully or partially devolved.
Find out more about why and how rail devolution has transformed urban and regional services.
Rail devolution
We have made the case through a series of reports that any meaningful rail reform should have devolution as a cornerstone.
Read more about Rail devolution
Report
Action stations: How devolution is transforming rail stations for the better
This report focuses on the benefits of the involvement of devolved authorities in rail stations.
The Government has embarked on a process of rail reform following the Williams-Shapps plan for rail which we think is a major opportunity to extend the benefits of devolution to more people and places.
We set out how this can be done in our short read report.
Report
Making rail reform work for people and places in the city regions
This statement calls for rail reform to both build on the success of the devolution of rail powers which has already taken place, and for structured and meaningful involvement for the city regions in how rail reform plans unfold.
Read more about Making rail reform work for people and places in the city regions
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Key responses to the Williams-Shapps Plan for Rail
GBRTT commission on simpler, better industry processes
Response to the consultation on legislation to implement rail transformation from the Urban Transport Group
Williams Rail Review - Call for evidence: objectives and assessment criteria
Latest press release
Urban Transport Group frustrated by sidelining of city region role in rail reform consultation
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Is Great British Railways still on track?
The delivery of the biggest rail reform since the 1990s seems to be stalling in its tracks since the Great British Railways plans were announced in 2021. Yet Monta Drozdova looks at some reforms (outside of primary legislation) which are gathering pace.
Read more about Is Great British Railways still on track?