Rail fares rise – watchdog calls for better fares deals to get passengers back on board

19 August 2020

Following the announcement of July’s Retail Prices Index as 1.6 per cent, Transport Focus is calling on the Government and train companies to work together to offer passengers better value for money deals to get them back on trains.

Anthony Smith, chief executive of the independent watchdog Transport Focus, said:

“People’s feelings about travel, and the way they use public transport, have changed. While the rail leisure travel may bounce back, our research tells us almost two in three former rail commuters expect to work from home more so we will probably now travel less for work, both commuting and on business.

“The Government must go above and beyond a fares freeze and get train companies to offer a combination of cut-price deals, carnet style ‘bundles’, flexible season tickets for commuters and better value for money fares across the board. To get Britain moving again in the coming months, tickets that fit the way we live and travel now are needed, not just season tickets designed for city gents in the last century.

“Like the Government’s restaurant deal, we need a ‘Head Out to Help Out’ campaign to help get the country on the move again, boost the economy and reduce traffic on our roads.”

 

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