The Urban Transport Group has welcomed plans outlined by Government to overhaul the rail system, including ‘giving devolved leaders more of a say on the services that directly impact their towns and cities.’

The plans were unveiled in a new eight-week consultation, launched today, ahead of the Rail Reform Bill.

Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, said:

“We welcome the Government's commitment to rail reform, and in particular, the potential for greater devolution over our railways. This offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring decision-making closer to local communities, better integrating rail into local transport networks, and helping drive economic growth in our local areas.

“We share the government’s ambitions to make rail travel simpler, more affordable and accessible for all, and we look forward to working closely with them on what we hope will be a game-changing piece of rail legislation.”

The consultation can be viewed here.