UK RAIL ON THE UP

Why is UK rail probably the only large European network experiencing passenger growth?

More business people routinely take the train on major business routes linking London with Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds and so on. Some companies advise staff to take the train, even on long journeys, so that the firm in question can claim to be “eco-friendly.” More user-friendly promotional fares backed up with a range of railcards that are usable by many, if not most, travellers. Newer trains operate on many British routes. Better marketing. More young people have taken to the train, often because they cannot afford the cost of buying and running a car. Growth in the student population who regularly return home. Long-distance commuting, especially in the South East, by people who cannot afford or are unwilling to shell out for London property prices.