Passenger figures show “rail is back in a big way”
17 July 2025
Newly-released figures show that the number of people arriving into major cities by rail has risen above pre-pandemic levels, and is the highest it has been since these records began in 2010.
Ben Plowden of Campaign for Better Transport said:
“Gloomy predictions for the future of rail at the time of the pandemic have proven wrong: rail is back in a big way, boosting our economy, keeping workers moving and saving our streets from gridlock. The fact that passenger arrivals are up while overcrowding is down is partly due to the huge success of the Elizabeth Line. With more bold projects like this we could transform cities and improve daily life for vast numbers of people. An expanded rail network combined with more affordable fares could really bring about a rail revolution.”
ENDS
For further information please contact the press office on 07984 773 468 (calls only no texts) or communications@bettertransport.org.uk.
Notes to Editors
Read the new Department for Transport statistics: Rail passenger numbers and crowding on weekdays in major cities in England and Wales.
Campaign for Better Transport operates in England and Wales. Campaign for Better Transport’s vision is for all communities to have access to high quality, sustainable transport that meets their needs, improves quality of life and protects the environment. Campaign for Better Transport Charitable Trust is a registered charity (1101929).
