Local leaders are pushing for greater control over the train company responsible for rail services in Northern England. Proposals focus on improving reliability and ensuring passenger satisfaction through regional oversight. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

train company
Northern Trains is owned by the Department for Transport through a holding company

Regional Mayors Push for Changes in Train Company Operations

Mayors in Northern England advocate reforms to the train company managing local rail networks. Leaders seek more power to address delays, cancellations, and outdated systems affecting daily services.

Don’t miss…Brazil Expands Freight Rail Investments to Modernize Transportation Infrastructure

Kim McGuinness, North East Mayor, highlighted ongoing frustrations over performance and reliability issues. She emphasized the need for regional oversight to address inefficiencies and modernize operations.

The Department for Transport supports localized management, promising cooperation on reforms. Officials stress the importance of integrating new policies to improve services. Leaders say accountability must be prioritized.

Improving the Train Company to Deliver Better Regional Rail Services

Northern Trains runs approximately 2,500 services daily across the region, but recent failures caused public frustration. Officials issued formal warnings, citing “unacceptable” performance and reliance on outdated technology.

Northern pledged to deliver improvements, targeting 90% punctuality and fewer than 2% cancellations by 2027. Regional leaders insist structural reforms are essential to achieve these goals.

Proposals for devolving rail responsibilities gained momentum after Northern canceled 1,000 services in October 2024. Leaders believe localized governance will enhance efficiency, accountability, and responsiveness to passenger needs.

McGuinness expressed determination to end cycles of poor performance. She emphasized empowering regional governments to drive meaningful changes benefiting communities and economic growth.

Northern stated its commitment to collaborating with mayors and other officials to implement improvements. Advocates believe reforms could transform the train company, ensuring sustainable progress and passenger-focused operations.

The Department for Transport reaffirmed its support for reforms, emphasizing partnerships between local leaders and national agencies. Officials promise to back measures aimed at stabilizing and improving services.

Regional leaders continue pushing for changes, arguing that localized oversight will help rebuild trust, improve infrastructure, and support future economic development in northern England.

Source: www.bbc.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…Philadelphia Train Line Expansion Plans Advance for Regional Growth

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit