The Government has announced a major rail fare freeze, promising to slash travel costs for millions of passengers. Commuters on pricier routes could save over £300 a year, putting more cash back in their pockets.
Big Savings on Season Tickets and Returns
The freeze covers all regulated fares across England, including season tickets, peak returns, and off-peak returns between major cities. This move will benefit more than a billion passenger journeys annually.
- Milton Keynes to London commuters using flexi-season tickets stand to save £315 per year.
- Those travelling from Woking to London will save £173 annually.
- Bradford to Leeds travellers can expect savings of £57 each year.
Modernising British Railways
The fare freeze is part of the Government’s wider plan to rebuild Great British Railways. The scheme aims to bring rail ticketing into the 21st century, introducing tap-in tap-out and digital options alongside investment in superfast WiFi.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “We all want cheaper rail travel. This freeze helps millions save and keeps more of their hard-earned cash.”
Chancellor Rachel Reeves added: “For the first time in 30 years, we’re freezing rail fares to ease the cost-of-living squeeze and help families get to work, school, or visit loved ones more affordably.”
Unions and Passenger Groups Applaud the Freeze
The fare freeze has won praise from rail unions and passenger advocates. A Rail Delivery Group spokesperson welcomed the announcement, saying: “This is great news for customers. Rail use is growing year on year, supporting jobs, families, and the environment. We’re committed to working with the Government to ensure railway reforms benefit passengers for years to come.”
