New watchdog could fix disruption on Sussex railways
Government plans unveiled today reveal a new independent regulator hoped to hold rail companies to account
It's hoped a new railway watchdog could reduce disruption on Sussex's train lines.
The Great British Railways body, announced in a government consultation launched today, is hoped to action the most frequent passenger complaints to improve journeys.
It'll also publish reports on rail operator performance in hopes to set what's being called "a clear standard" for rail travel.
Speaking to commuters at Three Bridges station in Crawley, Greatest Hits Radio heard delays were one of the main concerns.
One woman told us that she experiences issues "every day" travelling to work:
"I commute every day into London and around the South Coast.
"I don't think there's a day where there isn't disruption on the railway lines."
Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander said "passengers have put up with broken railways for far too long":
"This landmark reform will sweep away decades of failure, creating a Great British Railways passengers can rely on.
“We’re giving passengers a powerful voice with a new watchdog dedicated to addressing their biggest concerns, building railways people can trust, improving our services and boosting the economy in the process – the priority in our Plan for Change."
The plans also set out that devolved leaders will be given more influence on services that directly affect their towns and cities - just a couple of weeks after it was announced Sussex would be fast tracked for devolution.
Laura Shoaf, the Chair of Shadow Great British Railways said: "GBR will fundamentally change our railways, delivering growth, connections and opportunities across the country.
“The plans set out today will mean a better railway for everyone that uses it, allowing industry to work closer together, putting passengers and customers first and providing better value for money for taxpayers."