The government’s rail reform agenda – bringing the trains back into public ownership and creating the new Great British Railways (GBR) – is one of this government’s most popular policies, but it is also a hugely complex and politically high stakes undertaking.
When GBR is up and running, it will be the third largest public sector employer in the country after the NHS and the armed forces. These reforms have the potential to bring about major change, not just for rail itself, but through the wider economic and social benefits they could unlock.
But a change of ownership alone will not necessarily guarantee a better railway. Without a clearly defined purpose, strong institutional foundations and meaningful operational autonomy, GBR risks falling short of its potential to become a durable, long-term institution.
This new interim report, based on engagement with over 60 industry leaders, policymakers and rail experts, explores how GBR can be set up for success.
The report argues that there is a real opportunity now for the government to set out a clear overarching purpose for Britain’s railways, to lay strong organisational foundations, and to set the right tone and culture for this new arm of the British state.
The next few years will be the litmus test for this work. If the government does this well, it will be creating a vital new institution built to last for generations to come.