Improving the UK’s rail network will boost regional growth in the areas that need it most, improve travel options and cut greenhouse gas emissions. As the government creates Great British Railways and a new integrated transport strategy, the time is right to revitalise the rail system.

This report highlights the postcode lottery in the cost and convenience of current rail services across the country, drawing on mapping conducted for Green Alliance by Cardiff University, in collaboration with Trainline.

We propose targeted measures, including electrification, greater accessibility and fare reductions to increase passenger numbers. These would put UK rail travel on track as a driver of sustainable growth across the UK.