Rail operator Greater Anglia transfers to public ownership

Rail operator Greater Anglia transfers to public ownership

Greater Anglia, a key rail operator running services between Norwich and London Liverpool Street, has recently transitioned into public ownership as part of the government’s effort to renationalize the network. The company provides train services from various locations, including Cambridge, Ipswich, and Colchester, to London, as well as other destinations like Stansted Airport and Peterborough. With this transfer, half of all rail operators are now publicly owned, marking a move towards a more unified network known as Great British Railways.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized the benefits for passengers, stating that services into Norwich and Cambridge will now be operated with the public interest in mind. The goal is to create a more reliable, efficient, and accountable railway system that prioritizes passenger needs and ensures high standards are met. This shift towards public ownership is seen as a step towards simplifying the rail network in the UK.

Greater Anglia, which managed over 81 million passenger journeys in 2024-25, was recognized as Rail Operator of the Year at the National Transport Awards. The Department for Transport (DfT) affirmed its support for the company, highlighting plans for continued regional growth. Notable developments include the opening of two new stations, Beaulieu Park in north Chelmsford this month and Cambridge South early next year, along with the introduction of a new fleet of bi-mode trains.

Managing director of Greater Anglia, Martin Beable, expressed excitement about the transition to public ownership, seeing it as an opportunity to improve services and collaborate with other publicly owned operators. This move brings Greater Anglia closer to the vision of Great British Railways, a more unified and passenger-centric railway network. The consolidation of operations under public ownership is expected to drive growth, sustainability, and community pride in the regions served by these rail services

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