TF reiterates call for fares reform

Transport Focus is keeping up the pressure on the Government to reform the fares and ticketing system, after the watchdog’s latest Travel during COVID-19 survey revealed that half of those questioned say they expect to work from home more often in the future, and that more than a third think they will travel less frequently to their workplace.

Writing to Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps, TF Chief Executive Anthony Smith said: “Passenger views on the current structure are well-known: complicated, illogical, expensive, low levels of trust.

“A new railway needs a 21st century retail offer, especially when it may need to stimulate demand and persuade passengers to return.

“Changing work patterns will increase demand for flexible season tickets. People working from home for two-three days a week will not want to pay for a traditional season ticket offer but will still expect some recognition that they are a regular, if less frequent, traveller.

“We hope that consideration can be given to accelerating the provision of carnet/flexible seasonstyle tickets.

“As well as improving the worklife balance for passengers, this could also help manage demand in the coming months when capacity is scarcer.”