Britain’s state-owned rail operator since May 2025
Public data show overcrowding remains an issue on key commuter routes in England and Wales, with load factors exceeding 170% on several services last autumn. Authorities say capacity improvements and new timetables are underway to ease pressure while fares and service quality are under scrutiny.
Updates show a rising tide of subsidence cases driven by heat, drought and shifting foundations. Insurance payouts and delays in repairs are impacting homeowners, with thousands facing long remediation timelines and higher premiums.
Liverpool city region has begun bringing bus services back under public control, starting in St Helens. Fares stay capped at £2, and the network aims to increase frequency, improve evening and weekend services, and better connect hospitals and rail links.
ScotRail has been unable to fix all faults in its new mobile app after launch; officials say fixes are being worked on with daily meetings with the supplier. Public anger has grown as thousands report problems booking and managing tickets.
Disruptions will now allow passengers with valid tickets to travel on other operators’ trains within two hours of cancellations, with automatic swaps on major routes as Great British Railways moves forward.
Avanti West Coast is being brought into public ownership in March as part of a Labour-led plan to take essential rail services into public hands amid ongoing disruption and a push to improve punctuality, capacity and passenger experience.