Why the UK rail sector must adapt to lure passengers back
With passenger numbers across UK rail networks still significantly below pre-pandemic levels, some bold changes are urgently required to increase usage of services and restore revenues.
Getting on track for the decarbonisation of UK rail
In April the Department for Transport set out its intentions for decarbonising UK transport. However, with Government’s much-needed rail electrification programme on hold, what needs to be done to reach this ambitious goal?
Latest thinking on track and train arrangements and improving financial sustainability
Phil Bulman provides insight into the latest thinking on track and train arrangements and improving financial sustainability in the UK rail sector.
Covid-19: It’s time to reinvent Britain’s rail network
Some massive changes have affected Britain’s rail network since the Government introduced Emergency Measures Agreements (EMA). Based on analysis of ORR and passenger revenue data, these EMAs are likely to be unsustainable. But what will replace them?
Will passengers get on board with Government’s Bus Open Data Service?
The Government’s Bus Open Data Service promises to create a ‘golden age’ for bus passengers. However, to optimise value from the project a fresh approach will be essential.
Putting Collaboration Centre-Stage with Bombardier
How Vendigital’s innovative approach to a complex technical and commercial challenge brought together multiple functional teams from customer and supplier to achieve a genuine win-win solution.An industry characterised by complex interdependencies amongst manufacturers, operators, government, and a vast network of...Splitting the difference
While the concept of ‘split ticketing’ is nothing new, the recent launch of Trainline’s ‘SplitSave’ ticketing tool could allow many more passengers to cut costs on rail journeys by finding them clever combinations of tickets. Phil Bulman examines the future of rail ticket pricing in Britain.
Nationalisation: it doesn’t have to be this way
Northern Rail’s nationalisation is yet another reminder that the industry’s franchise model is flawed. In order to deliver the service and improvements needed, longer-term thinking and improved collaboration between key stakeholders are urgently required.
Short-term thinking is holding back big data opportunities
A massive amount of big data is already being harnessed, which could help to drive efficiency and enhance passenger experience – so why isn’t it happening?