The UK government has brought forward legislation to establish Great British Railways, which will be formed as an entity owned by the state to oversee operations related to passengers as well as digital functions.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

United Kingdom establishes Great British Railways to reform its rail system
Photo: UK Government

Great British Railways combines management and digital functions

The bill was submitted to the Parliament on November 5, 2025, and it signals the beginning of the most extensive rail reform in the country in decades. Great British Railways will be headquartered in Derby and will function as the key decision-making entity.

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It will be responsible for managing the passengers and freight services, tariff matters, and development of digital technology platforms.

This reform replaces a structure that was fragmented among various agencies that in most cases led to duplication. GBR will introduce one website and one application that will integrate 14 current ticketing websites. Passengers will enjoy the services that come with the ‘Pay As You Go’ payment option.

Additionally, GBR endeavors to improve fare transparency and value-for-money. The move aims to ensure that rail transport becomes more attractive compared to air and road transport and promotes sustainable transport.

Great British Railways enhances monitoring of services and regional representation

The reform introduces an independent regulator with enforcement powers to investigate instances of substandard service to passengers and to call for improvements on operators. The move will ensure that passengers’ rights are more protected.

The GBR will also facilitate the growth of freight transport capacity with the capacity to execute planning over a long-term perspective. This process is essential to ensure supply chain resilience and economic development within the nation.

The local bodies will get more say in the management of rail transport within their area. Decentralization will ensure that transport services and investment in transport infrastructure are best suited to needs. Experts argue that the integration of GBR provides a robust platform for sustainable development.

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