UK’s First Co-op Train Operator Launches £2.6m Fundraising Campaign

UK’s first co-op train operator, Go-op, has launched a £2.6m fundraising campaign. This project aims to enhance connections between Swindon and Taunton by May 2026. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

How UK’s First Co-op Train Operator Plans to Transform Regional Rail Networks

Go-op is set to operate hourly rail services for smaller towns, including Melksham, Frome, and Castle Cary. These areas currently experience infrequent train schedules, leaving passengers with limited options.

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The cooperative seeks to connect underserved towns to larger cities like Bristol and London. Go-op’s chair Alex Lawrie highlighted that this initiative will double the number of daily trains stopping in towns such as Melksham.

Lawrie stated that Go-op’s services will transform the lives of passengers and drivers. The co-op aims to fill gaps in the current network, offering an affordable and sustainable transport solution.

Sustainable Innovations by UK’s First Co-op Train Operator

Go-op plans to lease older trains, such as Class 153 diesels, which are being phased out by larger operators. With only 10% of the route electrified, the cooperative is also exploring greener alternatives like battery storage and hydrogen fuel.

The focus is not on speed but on creating connections where none existed before. Trains will operate at 75 mph, providing efficient and reliable services to regional communities.

A New Model for Cooperative Ownership

The cooperative operates under a multistakeholder model, with 50% of the business owned by consumers, 25% by workers, and 25% by social investors. Membership already includes 250 stakeholders, with opportunities for further investment now available.

Investments start at £25 for local residents and £500 for external social investors. Go-op hopes to attract larger organizations in the cooperative economy to support its mission.

Expanding Beyond Rail Services

Go-op considers its Swindon-Tauton route a “foot in the door” for future growth. The cooperative has already received inquiries from other underserved communities seeking improved transportation options.

Plans for a Go-op bus network are under discussion, further solidifying the co-op’s commitment to addressing public transport challenges nationwide.

UK’s first co-op train operator is reshaping regional rail travel with its £2.6m campaign. By focusing on underserved towns, sustainable practices, and community involvement, Go-op is redefining public transport for the better.

Source, photo: www.thenews.coop

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