Read TPS’ reaction to Labour’s rail announcements

"Today Labour announced its plan to fix Britain’s railways and get the country moving again. They promised to re-nationalise the rail network within five years of gaining power, helping them deliver on their six key objectives: reliability, affordability, efficiency, quality, accessibility and safety.

The Transport Planning Society (TPS) were pleased to see the plans centre on the passenger and improving journeys for all. Passengers have not been at the heart of decision-making in the rail sector in recent years. The emphasis on affordability and reducing ticket prices was particularly reassuring considering current economic trends and the need to ensure that rail as a sustainable mode of travel is accessible to the widest group of potential users. This is essential if we are to deliver a just transition to a net zero future.

We also welcome the emphasis on realising the potential for rail freight as part of tackling congestion and carbon emissions – freight is often the “Cinderella” issue in transport planning. 

TPS believe that Labour’s plans should incorporate the need to better integrate land use planning with the railway network if we are to realise genuine sustainable development. This alignment needs to sit alongside Labour’s welcome emphasis on improved engagement with local authorities and other public sector stakeholders.

The TPS highlighted the importance of a thriving rail system in our member-led manifesto published last year. Our manifesto called for:

1.      Introduction of a National Transport Strategy for England that aligns with spatial planning and the devolved nations’ transport strategies

2.      Delivery of an integrated, accessible and affordable public transport system across the UK

3.      Investment in safe, high-quality active travel routes

4.      Reduce reliance on the car and introduce traffic reduction targets to focus this work

5.      Encouragement of a sustainable and equitable switch to low-emission vehicles

It’s encouraging to see the Labour Party recognise the role rail can play in achieving strategic socio-economic and environmental goals. We hope the other political parties embed our five manifesto asks into their policy platforms."

- Ben Plowden, Chair of the Transport Planning Society -