Rail fares in England are to be frozen for the first time in 30 years next year
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the freeze until March 2027 will apply to regulated fares, which includes season tickets and off-peak returns
Rail ticket prices were due to go up by 4.8 per cent based on last July’s RPI
“This will help hardworking families save money and support economic growth in town centres by keeping travel costs down.” says the Government
Eddie Dempsey, RMT general secretary, said: “This freeze is a welcome first step towards better value fares for passengers and shows that government plans for public ownership of the railways, can deliver real tangible benefits for passengers”
“More affordable fares will encourage greater use of public transport, supporting jobs, giving a shot in the arm to local economies and helping to improve the environment.
“As more passengers return to the railway, it is worth remembering that a well-staffed network with ticket office workers on hand to help people find the best and most affordable tickets, is the best way forward for the rail industry.”
The Rail Union ASLEF said “ This is the right decision, at the right time, to help passengers be able to afford to make the journeys they need to take.”
