Tag: Department for Transport

The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 25 November 2025.

Decisive action on third runway to support trade, tourism and hundreds of thousands of jobs.

• scheme chosen to drive a swift and robust policy review to shape plans for Heathrow expansion in line with the UK’s legal, environmental and climate obligations 
• review will allow a planning decision by 2029 and London airspace to be redrawn to enable quicker, quieter, and greener flights to take off from a new runway by 2035 
• new runway will be a boost for connectivity, supporting national economic growth, improving passenger experience and delivering the Plan for Change, after passenger numbers hit record levels at Heathrow this summer 

 A third runway at Heathrow is another step closer to take off by 2035, as the Transport Secretary confirms today (25 November 2025) that Heathrow Airport Limited’s (HAL’s) proposal will be used as the scheme to progress the project.  

The proposal will shape the review of the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS), which is the framework within which the planning decision on expansion at the airport will be made, and any amendments to the ANPS will be subject to consultation next summer. 

As the UK’s only hub airport, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country, expanding Heathrow will attract international investment, boost Britain’s connectivity, and support economic growth to deliver the Plan for Change. This summer a record 23.4 million passengers travelled via Heathrow, highlighting the level of passenger demand. 

After requesting further information last month from the remaining two promoters, the government has assessed that HAL’s proposal offers the most deliverable option and provides the greatest likelihood of meeting the government’s ambition for a decision on a development consent application within this parliament.  

Any amendments to the ANPS will be consulted on next summer after the Transport Secretary committed to completing the process 3 years faster than production of the policy statement in 2018. This will provide an important opportunity for businesses, communities, and the wider aviation sector to have their say. 

Selection of the scheme to inform the remainder of the review does not represent a final decision on a third runway scheme or design, and any amendments to the ANPS will be subject to consultation and parliamentary scrutiny next year. Exact details such as the length of the third runway, layout, and associated infrastructure implications will continue to be considered throughout the remainder of the ANPS review. 

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander said: 

Heathrow is our only hub airport which supports trade, tourism and hundreds of thousands of jobs, underpinning prosperity not only in the South East but across the UK.  

Today is another important step to enable a third runway and build on these benefits, setting the direction for the remainder of our work to get the policy framework in place for airport expansion. This will allow a decision on a third runway plan this parliament which meets our key tests including on the environment and economic growth.  

We’re acting swiftly and decisively to get this project off the ground so we can realise its transformational potential for passengers, businesses, and our economy sooner.

The government has been clear expansion plans must meet the UK’s legally binding climate obligations alongside balancing delivering economic growth as well as air quality and noise obligations.  

The independent Climate Change Committee will be consulted on as part of the review to ensure expansion is consistent with the net zero framework. Today the Transport Secretary has written to the committee requesting advice including on the role of aviation in achieving the UK’s carbon budgets and inviting feedback on proposed updates to the ANPS to ensure alignment with climate commitments. 

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said: 

We’re taking action where previous governments hesitated, and moving forward with Heathrow’s third runway to drive economic growth, international investment and better connections for our country.

That means opening the door to new growth and opportunity with Heathrow expansion – creating over 100,000 jobs, boosting our economy, and giving businesses and communities the certainty they need to thrive.

A swift and robust review of the ANPS was launched last month to consider airport expansion in light of new environmental and climate obligations and sets out the government’s criteria to consider future planning applications.  

The selection of HAL’s scheme at this stage follows a rigorous assessment of the promoter’s proposals. This has determined that HAL’s proposal includes expansion plans that are resilient and efficient. 

The government expects that an application for development consent for a Northwest Runway at Heathrow Airport will be brought forward by the promoter of the scheme, the airport operator, Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL), after the review of the Airports National Policy Statement. 

The government is also pressing ahead with modernising airspace across the UK, to deliver quicker, quieter, and more efficient flights with lower emissions, reducing the sector’s climate change impacts.  

The newly published Airspace Design Strategic Objectives will mean that the Greater London airspace block will be given priority in airspace modernisation processes. London’s airspace – which sees over 1.1 million takes offs and landings a year – will be redrawn to ensure the capital’s skies are ready for more departures from a third runway from 2035. This will also benefit passengers after record levels of people flying over the summer, by shortening flight routes and improving resilience in the sector. 

A consultation has also been launched on simplifying the Air Navigation Guidance to set clear priorities, save carbon emissions, and ensure that people continue to have a meaningful say on airspace changes that affect them.

Today’s milestone follows the approval of Luton expansion earlier this year and Gatwick expansion last month, as the government continues to back aviation projects that will grow the economy and provide highly skilled jobs. 

The government is backing the development of green aviation through the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Bill. This bill will ensure Heathrow contributes to the UK meeting its climate targets by providing economic security for the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market by guaranteeing a set price per unit for UK producers.  

An additional £63 million is being invested to speed up construction on new SAF production plants, as the government goes further and faster to deliver growth and reach net zero.

The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 12 November 2025.

Partnership with the Ministry of Defence will see 36 defence driving examiners provide thousands of additional tests over the next year.

• government taking decisive action to reduce driving test waiting times, deploying defence driving examiners across England over the next year
• up to 6,500 additional tests will be delivered over the next year and will be based at driving test centres with the highest demand, so learners can get on the road quickly
• new measures also introduced to stamp out reselling of tests, as government remains committed to helping drivers ditch their L plates as soon as they’re ready

Military driving examiners will help deliver up to 6,500 more tests in tough new measures to tackle the driving test backlog, the government announced today (12 November 2025).

There will also be a new limit on rearranging tests and a ban on third parties booking on behalf of learners in order to make the system fairer, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said.

The Department for Transport, working in partnership with the Ministry of Defence (MOD), has announced 36 defence driving examiners (DDEs), made up of civilian MOD personnel, will help conduct driving tests one day a week for 12 months.

The extra personnel will be focusing primarily on car driving tests but with flexibility to carry out vocational tests, for bus and lorry drivers, if needed. They will be based at the driving test centres with the highest demand near their MOD base or home location.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:

We inherited an enormous backlog of learners ready to ditch their L-Plates, who have been sadly forced to endure record waiting times for their tests. Every learner should have an equal and fair opportunity to take a test.

We’re taking decisive action and these new measures will deliver thousands of extra tests over the next year, helping learners get on the road sooner. This will ease pressure on the system, removing barriers to opportunity and supporting economic growth as part of our Plan for Change.

Military driving examiners usually test service personnel, covering cars as well as fuel tankers and armoured carriers. The new arrangement will benefit both parties, helping tackle the driving test backlog and keeping DDEs skills sharp.

The Minister for the Armed Forces, Al Carns, has authorised the deployment of military driving examiners to help bring down the backlog, with no negative impact on military operations.

Minister for the Armed Forces, Al Carns, said:

The Armed Forces and civilians working within the Ministry of Defence have always been ready to step up when the country needs them – and this is another example of that commitment in action.

Our military driving examiners bring skill and professionalism from testing service personnel to prepare them for some of the toughest conditions imaginable.

By supporting civilian testing, they’re helping to get more learners on the road, keep Britain moving and deliver for the public.

Alongside military support, the government is introducing new rules to tackle unfair booking practices that have allowed bots and resellers to profit at learners’ expense.

New rules will mean that:

• learner drivers will only be able to make up to 2 changes to the driving test in total – including moves, swaps and location changes – before it must be cancelled and rebooked
• learner drivers will be restricted to a limited number of test centres, which are located close to the original booking
• only learner drivers will be able to book their own test and not instructors on their behalf

Limiting who can book a test and the number of changes made will mean third parties will no longer be able to resell tests at inflated prices. Learners will only pay the actual fee DVSA charges – £62 on weekdays and £75 on evenings, weekends and bank holidays – giving them greater control and confidence when booking a driving test.

Steve Gooding, Director of the RAC Foundation, said:

It is good to see steps being put in place to put a stop to those touting tests to frustrated learners – candidates stuck in the queue should at least be reassured that they aren’t being elbowed aside by those simply seeking to make a quick buck.

What will really deter the touts and tackle the queues would be a return to the more reasonable pre-COVID waiting time for tests, which we hope the arrival of a platoon of military examiners alongside the new DVSA recruits will help deliver.

The government instructed the DVSA to take further measures this year, and is now beginning to see early signs of improvement. We saw an increase in the number of tests over summer 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 and have nearly doubled the number of trainers available to train new examiners, to help unlock more tests.

The government remains committed to breaking down barriers to opportunity, particularly in rural areas where a driving licence is vital for accessing jobs and training.

The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 28 October 2025.

The Bus Services Act will make it easier for local leaders to take control of their buses and put passengers first.

• thousands of bus passengers to benefit from more reliable and dependable journeys, thanks to new law
• passengers will be protected from sudden cuts to crucial routes, and training will be provided to drivers on how to handle anti-social behaviour, improving safety for women and girls
• power will also be put in the hands of local authorities to decide what works best for their communities, breaking down barriers to opportunity and boosting growth as part of the government’s Plan for Change

Better buses are on their way for thousands of passengers across the country after the government’s Bus Services Bill became law yesterday evening (27 October 2025), marking a new dawn for bus travel in the UK.

Buses remain the most used form of public transport across England, but around 300 million fewer miles were driven by bus services in England in 2024 compared to 2010, with passengers suffering from sudden route cuts and a lack of accountability. 

This landmark move will end the risk of routes being scrapped at short notice by tightening the requirements for cancelling vital routes, an issue which has left passengers, particularly those who are elderly, disabled or living in rural areas, cut off and isolated from their communities.

The government will now empower councils to identify services which they deem as socially necessary, meaning strict requirements must be followed if operators wish to cancel or change them.

Not only will the new laws ensure services are protected but it will also lift the ban on local authorities setting up their own bus companies, allowing them to run their own services to ensure that passengers, not profit, come first.

The Bus Services Act also includes plans to mandate staff, including drivers and those based at bus stations,  to undertake training to recognise and handle incidents of anti-social behaviour and crime, including violence against women and girls.

The government will back bus services with further funding for local authorities, which will be agreed in the coming weeks.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:

For too long catching the bus has felt like an ordeal, with unreliable services and cuts to key routes meaning many communities, particularly those in rural areas, have been left isolated.

The passing of our vital Bus Services Act will finally change this.  By making it easier for local leaders to take control of their buses we are putting passengers first, improving access to jobs, education and tourism opportunities which are all vital to growing the economy – a fundamental part of our Plan for Change.

As well as plans to allow councils to start their own bus services, the Bus Services Act will also cut the red tape holding back bus franchising, where local authorities allow companies to operate in their areas while retaining control over key aspects such as routes and fares, ensuring this model can be delivered faster.

The government is already backing local authorities York and North Yorkshire, Cornwall, Cumbria, Hertfordshire, Cheshire West and Chester as part of the Bus Franchising Pilots, which aims to explore how local authorities could take control of its bus network and transform rural services to work for everyone.

Corinne Pluchino, Chief Executive of Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE), said: 

The lack of reliable, affordable public transport in rural areas is a widespread problem which impacts on those in greatest need and holds back economic growth.  We welcome the new measures to require the identification and listing of socially necessary local services, and new requirements if bus operators want to cancel or change them. This is an important first step to achieving better rural bus services, and ACRE looks forward to working with government to ensure the Act delivers positive change for rural communities.

Paul Nowak, General Secretary, TUC said: 

This landmark Bus Bill is great news for the hundreds of thousands of workers across the country who rely on our bus networks to get to and from work each day. The government is turning the page on the failed era of bus privatisation – and returning to a system that puts ordinary people above profits and shareholder returns. We’ve already seen the real difference that effective franchising can make in places like Manchester. It’s now vital that local leaders work in partnership with the bus workforce to make the most of the opportunities offered by the Bill.

Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, said:

The Bus Services Act represents a watershed moment for the future of the bus. We now have legislation that provides all local leaders with greater powers and the ability to choose the right tools to improve their local bus networks and passengers’ experiences – ensuring these services are accessible, safe and attractive. We warmly welcome the Act and its recognition of the critical role that local areas play on the road to better buses.

The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 27 October 2025.

New station will unlock thousands of new houses and create over 2,000 jobs in the East of England.

• brand-new Beaulieu Park rail station opens to passengers ahead of schedule, backed by £141 million government investment and marks first new station on the Great Eastern Mainline in more than 100 years
• landmark development will support 2,500 new jobs, connect hundreds of thousands of people across the East and deliver thousands of new homes, supporting government’s pledge to build 1.5 million new homes over the next 5 years   
• new station to be operated by newest publicly-owned operator Greater Anglia, one of the UK’s best performing operators, helping deliver a railway that is more accountable, efficient and reliable for passengers

Hundreds of thousands of people across the east of England now have access to faster, more reliable services as Beaulieu Park Station opens to the public ahead of schedule (27 October 2025).

It is the first new station on the Great Eastern Mainline in more than 100 years and is set to generate a £250 million economic boost for the region.

Funded by £141 million from the government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund, this milestone marks a significant step in its commitment to unify track and train under Great British Railways, ensuring that new infrastructure delivers maximum benefit for passengers and communities.

It offers passengers up to 4 trains per hour during peak times and 2 trains per hour during off-peak periods, as well as direct rail access to London Liverpool Street in just 40 minutes and Colchester in 25 minutes, cutting car journeys and reducing pollution for local communities. It is also set to generate a £250 million economic boost for the region.

The station will be operated by Greater Anglia, opening just 2 weeks after Greater Anglia became a publicly-owned operator, marking a major step towards a simpler, unified railway under Great British Railways.

Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said:

With over £140 million of government investment, the opening of Beaulieu Park station marks a major milestone for economic growth in the East of England, unlocking thousands of new houses, creating over 2000 jobs and driving prosperity across the region.

Under the trusted services of publicly-owned Greater Anglia, we’re delivering on our Plan for Change by building a simpler, more modern rail network that supports communities and powers the UK’s economy.

With half of all rail operators now publicly owned, the government is delivering a network that prioritises accountability, efficiency and reliability, putting passengers at its heart.

Greater Anglia, consistently rated among the UK’s best-performing operators, will continue to thrive under public ownership – engaging with local communities, sharing best practice and driving improvements across the network.

The new station is also a cornerstone of the Chelmsford Garden Community project, which will deliver 10,000 new homes alongside vital infrastructure such as shops, healthcare facilities and schools.

Backed by government investment, the station supports its pledge to build 1.5 million new homes over the next 5 years, helping to create thriving communities and better connectivity for generations to come.

Martin Beable, Managing Director, Greater Anglia, said:

Beaulieu Park station will benefit from a regular and reliable service, making rail travel simple and convenient for passengers. Services will be operated by our fleet of new, comfortable, air-conditioned class 720 trains, which also offer plug/USB points and free wifi and have helped us deliver annual punctuality of over 95% on the Great Eastern Main Line in Essex over the last 3 years.

The new station will be staffed from the first train to the last train, 7 days a week. Staff will be on hand at all times to answer questions, help passengers buy tickets and support customers requiring assistance. Located right next to the Beaulieu housing development and the A12, we expect the new station to be a very attractive and popular option for travellers from that part of Essex.

This opening was the latest in a wider range of transport improvements in the area, with thousands of motorists set to benefit from faster, smoother and safer journeys following an upgrade to a key junction of the M25.

The government-funded scheme to improve Junction 28 between London and Essex saw the opening of a new section of road connecting the M25 to the A12 eastbound.

It will help ease congestion in Brentwood, Chelmsford and the surrounding areas, as well as reducing the chances of collisions, improving connectivity and helping to boost economic growth.

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader at Essex County Council, said:

Beaulieu Park station will both unlock economic development in the surrounding areas and transform travel in and around Chelmsford. As well as our own investment, at Essex County Council, we worked with partners to secure the additional funding needed to make the project a reality.

In Essex, we are leading the way by making sure new developments are built in the right way, by providing the infrastructure that residents, visitors and businesses need. We are being bold and ambitious to future-proof the county and put investment where it’s most needed.

It is fantastic to see Beaulieu Park station open and I thank everyone involved for their hard work in helping deliver it ahead of schedule.

The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 17 October 2025.

Today, 17 October 2025, RAIB marks 20 years of independently investigating accidents and incidents on the UK railway.

Railway and tramway passengers and workers have benefited from safer journeys and working environments following two decades of independent safety investigations by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB). 

Since becoming operational on 17th October 2005, RAIB has deployed investigators 777 times across Britain’s railway network. The organisation’s 427 published reports have generated 1,891 safety recommendations and 447 learning points that have directly contributed to improved safety standards across the industry. 

The organisation has issued 52 urgent safety advice notifications when immediate action was needed to protect lives. Its 138 safety bulletins and digests have highlighted 278 critical safety messages to the industry. 

Andrew Hall, Chief Inspector of Rail Accidents said:

Learning from accidents is a fundamental way of improving safety and the railway has a long history of doing so, going back to the 19th century. Today our anniversary feels poignant, as it is also 25 years since the tragic accident at Hatfield, which took the lives of four people and injured 70 more.   

Thankfully over the last 20 years, the railway has become statistically safer. Technological advancements, organisational change and a better understanding of risk have all contributed. Such improvements are no small part due to the structural changes brought about by the Cullen Inquiry and the consequent establishment of the tripartite railway safety structure: RAIB; ORR; and the railway industry, including RSSB.  

RAIB’s role today is the same as it was on day one, to independently investigate accidents to improve railway and tramway safety and inform the industry and the public. After a significant accident or incident, the travelling public must be assured that a thorough and independent investigation will be conducted and that the causes will be published so that everyone can understand what happened and learn the lessons.

The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 6 October 2025.

Organisations and businesses can bid for a share of £1 million funding to help them deliver initiatives that enable more people to walk, wheel or cycle.

• Active Travel Innovation Fund to award grants of up to £100,000 for successful bids
• fund will help start or scale engagement projects that will have a positive impact on walking, wheeling and cycling
• fund comes as part of government’s Plan for Change by backing bold ideas to boost the economy

Organisations and businesses can bid for a share of £1 million in funding to help them deliver bold and innovative initiatives that enable more people to walk, wheel or cycle, Active Travel England (ATE) has announced today (6 October 2025).

The Active Travel Innovation Fund is inviting applications from small to medium-sized businesses and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), with grants of up to £100,000 available for each successful project.

The funding is designed to help develop new ideas or to expand on successful initiatives that are already making a difference. Examples could include community projects that help under-represented groups make more active travel choices, partnerships between councils and local communities or businesses to promote sustainable travel, or digital tools that improve safety and accessibility.

This funding will support the government’s Plan for Change by backing entrepreneurs and creative and ambitious projects to kickstart economic growth.

Chris Boardman, National Active Travel Commissioner, said:   

The Active Travel Innovation Fund will help turn great ideas into real improvements for people who walk, wheel, or cycle. Enabling more people get about under their own steam is one of the most important interventions we can make to improve the nation’s health, so it’s crucial that we support bold projects that will help us do this.

We’re excited to see the creativity and ambition of applicants and look forward to working closely with the selected organisations to deliver positive and lasting change to the way people travel.

The Minister for Local Transport, Lilian Greenwood, said:

Walking, wheeling, and cycling bring huge physical and mental health benefits. We are determined to make them easy and safe choices for people across the country.

The government is providing £1 million to back bold projects from small businesses and community groups to encourage more people to choose these healthier, more active, options for short journeys. We’re building a healthy, sustainable and joined-up network, a key part of our Plan for Change to boost local businesses, grow local economies and ease pressure on the NHS.

In addition to funding, successful applicants will receive practical support from ATE and the Government Grant Managed Service (GGMS). This could include help with building partnerships, connecting with new stakeholders, or setting up ways to measure and track the success of their projects.

The funding period of projects will run for 12 months, followed by an evaluation process, with each organisation asked to share a case study and final report into how the funds have made an impact.  

Through the funding, ATE aims to create a wide network of partners to share ideas and collaboratively develop skills, while providing valuable feedback to ATE as they continue to champion and accelerate active travel in England.

Today’s funding comes after the government announced a £300 million funding package in February to help local authorities build new walking and cycling infrastructure, provide cycle training for children, and support community initiatives.

These improvements are expected to boost public health by cutting 43,000 sick days each year, easing pressure on the NHS, reducing congestion, and strengthening local economies.

The Active Travel Innovation Fund will help small to medium sized businesses and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to go even further by developing creative active travel solutions that meet the needs of their communities.

The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 2 September 2025.

Winning projects focus on improving safety on rail platforms and enhancing passenger safety across the UK.

Twenty-six cutting-edge projects aimed at improving passenger experience on the railway have launched, supported by a multi-million pound funding package by the Department for Transport (DfT).

In partnership with Innovate UK, working closely with Network Rail and train operators, the First-of-a-Kind (FOAK) competition offers grant funding for innovative projects to be tested on the railway, to give them a better chance at being bought by train operators, freight companies and Network Rail.

Given the Transport Secretary’s clear direction to put passengers at the heart of every journey, this year’s winning projects focus on improving safety at the platforms, passenger safety and reducing incidents of vehicles hitting railway bridges. Through working closely with Network Rail and train operators, these innovations will help to improve rail services and infrastructure where it’s needed most.

Among the winning projects is IntelliPan Network, which will reduce delays for passengers by using AI to detect faults on overhead lines, eliminating dangerous, service-disrupting dewirements.

Another successful project, SafeRide 5G, will empower passengers to report incidents using their own devices safely and privately via onboard wifi, boosting response times and removing key barriers to reporting, improving passenger safety.

Twenty-six successful projects will be supported with £5 million in funding from DfT, demonstrating the government’s commitment to trialling innovative technology to modernise our railway and boost the passenger experience. These projects will help to deliver better services for passengers, encouraging more people to take the train and supporting growth as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said:

The winners of this competition are taking cutting-edge technology to address some of the biggest challenges facing the rail industry, making a railway that works better for the people and goods using it.

These innovations are putting safety, reliability and passenger experience first, like IntelliPan Network using AI to detect faults on overhead lines, reducing disruption caused by dangerous dewirements.

Through this funding, we are building a platform on which innovation can thrive, giving new technologies a chance to succeed and driving economic growth as part of the Plan for Change.

Previous competition winners are already being used widely across the railways, like the Portable Track Geometry Measurement System, which provides immediate track information to engineers to speed up the lifting of speed restrictions or line closures, getting passengers to their destinations quicker.

Mike Biddle, Executive Director for Net Zero at Innovate UK, said:

The innovations receiving support through this competition will contribute to a more accessible, safer, and efficient railway system throughout the UK. The competition highlights the importance of collaboration with industry partners and focuses on delivering high-maturity demonstrations, ensuring seamless integration into the existing railway infrastructure.

Delivered by Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency, on behalf of the Department for Transport, the FOAK rail programme seeks to identify and support outstanding, innovative solutions. Funded organisations will showcase the creativity and impact of their ideas through live demonstrations.

The 26 successful projects have today (2 September 2025) started work on the new technologies, with testing to take place over the coming months. See the full list of winners.

The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 2 September 2025.

Investment will help councils improve transport for local people, from cleaner buses to safer cycling routes for communities across England.

Millions of people across the country will have greater access to jobs, education and public services thanks to a £104 million government funding boost, which will be shared with communities outside England’s major cities.

Thanks to the additional resource funding, local authorities can now decide how to improve public transport and drive forward schemes that boost growth and matter most to their communities. This could include new zero emission buses, improving accessibility, reducing congestion and making streets safer with improved lighting and crossings for pedestrians and cyclists.

The government has now confirmed how much funding each local authority across the country will be receiving under the Local Transport Grant (LTG). The funding boost will see significant uplifts for the North West, Yorkshire and Humber, East Midlands and West Midlands and will enable councils to develop detailed plans for local schemes that have the greatest impact in their areas.

Funding will also ensure councils can manage the delivery of projects that improve journeys to work, shops and essential services across towns and rural areas, helping grow local economies to deliver the Plan for Change.

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:

Good transport connections are the foundation of thriving communities, which is why we’re backing local authorities to transform journeys for millions of people across England.

This investment will help councils to improve transport for local people – from cleaner buses to safer cycling routes – connecting communities with jobs, education and essential services.

By putting resources directly into the hands of local leaders, we’re ensuring every part of the country benefits from better transport links that support economic growth and provide opportunity – all part of our Plan for Change.

Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy, British Chambers of Commerce, said:

This is much needed funding to help people access jobs and services across England. It will also better connect businesses, customers, and suppliers. High-quality, reliable transport options, which reduce congestion, are key to boosting local economic growth.

Ben Plowden, Chief Executive, Campaign for Better Transport, said:

With 70% of trips under 5 miles, properly resourced local authorities are central to the task of improving sustainable travel choices. Confirmation of this investment to help them plan and deliver schemes will be very welcome in towns and rural areas, where difficult journeys can cut people off from jobs, services and connections with others.

Better transport makes a huge difference to people’s lives, unlocking opportunities and revitalising communities.

David Skaith, the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:

An accessible, affordable and reliable transport network is critical to growth in our region – connecting people to jobs, education and vital services.

After decades of neglect, we won’t be able to realise our transport aspirations overnight. However, this funding is a welcome boost that will ensure we can continue laying the groundwork and bringing together the skills and expertise we need to deliver the transport improvements across York and North Yorkshire that our communities want and need to see.

The investment provides unprecedented support for local transport improvements that support the government’s Plan for Change, driving growth and access to opportunity.

Today’s £104 million resource allocation boost for local authorities follows the government’s commitment of £2.2 billion, providing them with multi-year funding certainty to improve transport in their communities.

The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 1 September 2025.

Passengers can sign up for digital rail ticket trials on East Midlands Rail and Northern trains.

Passengers across the East Midlands can now benefit from simpler and more flexible tickets, with the launch of new digital trials.

From today (1 September 2025), rail passengers travelling between Leicester, Derby and Nottingham will be able to take part in these trials, with more taking place in conjunction with Northern Trains in Yorkshire from the end of September.

The digital ticketing trials will allow passengers to check in and check out seamlessly on rail journeys, using a location-identifying app on their phone. The app will track journeys using GPS (Global Positioning System) technology and then automatically charge passengers the best fare at the end of the day. For ticket inspections and to go through ticket barriers, a unique bar code will pop up in the app to be scanned.

This technology replaces the need for paper tickets or more commonly used mobile tickets using QR codes bought online or in-app ahead of your journey. Doing away with the need to plan and book journeys in advance, the app tracks your journey and determines which trains you took, detecting when you’ve left the rail network.

Up to 4,000 passengers can take part in these trials by simply signing up via the relevant train operator’s website, taking advantage of simpler and more flexible train travel, and a guarantee of the best value fare on the day.

This technology has already been tested widely in Switzerland, Denmark and Scotland, however, this marks the first time these trials are being brought to England’s rail network.

This demonstrates the government’s commitment to boosting passenger experience and trialling innovative technology to encourage more people to choose rail. By saving both time and money on thousands of journeys, digital ticketing will help improve living standards and make working people better off – delivering on the government’s Plan for Change.

Rail Minister, Lord Peter Hendy, said:

The railway ticketing system is far too complicated and long overdue an upgrade to bring it into the 21st century. Through these trials, we’re doing just that and making buying tickets more convenient, more accessible and more flexible. By putting passenger experience at the heart of our decision making, we’re modernising fares and ticketing and making it simpler and easier for people to choose rail.

Through our Plan for Change, we’re delivering growth in every corner of the country and passengers across the Midlands and North will see real change in buying their train travel from today.

Oli Cox, Head of Commercial Strategy and Business Planning at East Midlands Railway, said:

We’re delighted to announce the launch of our digital pay-as-you-go trial. We’ve had a fantastic response from customers keen to take part – with more than 500 people registering their interest so far.

We know that complex fares can be a real barrier to travel, but this trial removes that uncertainty, making it easy to simply tap in and out on your phone, safe in the knowledge you’re always getting the best-value fare on the day.

It is exciting to be one of the first train operating companies to trial this new technology, and we’re looking forward to hearing from customers as they start using the app to travel between Derby, Nottingham and Leicester in the months ahead. There is still time for customers to sign up and try it for themselves and anyone interested should visit our website for more details.

Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said:

Since I first stood to be Mayor, it’s been my ambition to introduce integrated, tap on and off ticketing technology across the region. I’m, therefore, very pleased to see this first step towards simpler and more flexible train tickets being trialled by East Midlands Rail.

It’s important to me that residents have automatic access to the best value for money when travelling. I urge anyone who uses this line regularly to register their interest and give it a go.

With full public transport responsibilities being devolved to me in 2026, I look forward to hearing the feedback from East Midlands Rail and working together in the future to make easier journeys possible for everyone in the East Midlands.

From the end of September, thousands more passengers will be able to take advantage of the simplified ticketing, with trials running on Northern services to Harrogate, Leeds, Sheffield, Doncaster and Barnsley.

Northern passengers are already moving to modern ticketing, with January figures showing Northern hit a monthly average of almost 78% usage of mobile tickets and reached a single-day high of 89%. In June last year, Northern reported the growing preference for mobile tickets amongst its passengers had led to a reduction of 2.3 million orange ‘magstripe’ tickets across the previous 12 months.

Alex Hornby, Commercial and Customer Director, Northern, said:

These trials mark an important step forward in simplifying rail travel and making the experience as frictionless as possible for our customers.

By trialling digital pay-as-you-go technology on some of our routes, we’re helping to shape a future where hopping on a train is as easy as tapping in and out. We thank the customers who have registered to participate in the trials on our routes later this year and we hope more will come forward to play their part in modernising how people travel by rail in the North.

Backed by nearly £1 million of government funding, the trials are part of plans to modernise our transport system, putting passenger experience at the heart of every journey and encouraging more people to take the train – building on the government’s mission to deliver growth.

The government is delivering the biggest overhaul of the railways in a generation through the creation of Great British Railways, which will help to deliver better and more reliable services for passengers.

The press release issued by the Department for Transport on 23 August 2025.

Families can continue to travel to dozens of popular destinations for no more than £3 for a single fare.

Families across the country can enjoy cheaper days out this summer, thanks to the government’s continued support for affordable travel through the £3 bus fare cap – making it easier than ever to reach top attractions without breaking the bank.

From seaside escapes to countryside adventures, the capped fare means families can travel to dozens of popular destinations for no more than £3 for a single fare on thousands of routes, opening up access to opportunities, boosting local economies and driving regional growth in towns, cities and rural communities.

Whether it’s exploring museums, getting out into nature, or enjoying coastal days out, the extended cap – backed by continued investment in the recent Spending Review – ensures that great days out remain affordable for all and puts money back in people’s pockets as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

Some of the destinations families can reach for no more than £3 per each single fare include Alton Towers, Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Warwick Castle, West Midlands Safari Park and the National Space Centre.

Minister for Local Transport, Simon Lightwood, said:

Whether it’s a trip to the seaside, a day out at a museum, or just visiting friends, we want people to get out and enjoy everything their area has to offer – without worrying about the cost.

That’s why we’ve kept the £3 fare cap in place and why we’re investing in better, more reliable buses across the country. It’s about making travel simpler, cheaper and better for everyone, driving growth and access to opportunity as part of our Plan for Change.

The fare cap is just one part of the government’s commitment to fixing buses. The incoming Bus Services Bill will reform the sector – putting buses back at the heart of local communities by giving local leaders the powers to overhaul how services operate and prevent vital routes from being scrapped.

Better buses are central to the government’s Plan for Change – connecting communities, strengthening the local economy and boosting access to jobs. The Bus Services Bill comes alongside the government providing over £1 billion this financial year to improve the reliability and frequency of bus services across the country, and confirming multi-year funding to maintain and improve buses long-term.

Sabrina de Carvalho, managing director of Merlin’s UK operations, added:

We see an increasing number of guests travelling to Merlin’s UK attractions by public transport and we always encourage them to leave the car at home – where they can – and make use of sustainable travel options when having memorable days out.

With bus fares continuing to be capped at £3, I have no doubt that more and more visitors will reach our entertainment destinations using this affordable mode of transport. Information about public transport options, including bus routes, is made available on our attraction websites.

Alison Edwards, director of policy and external relations at the Confederation of Passenger Transport, said:

Bus operators are ready for one of their busiest weekends of the year up and down the country this August Bank Holiday. With warm and dry weather forecast across most of the country, as many as 20 million journeys are likely to be taken by bus over the long weekend as people take the opportunity for an affordable day out.

Bus travel is enjoying a revival nationwide with journeys up steadily year-on-year, which is great news for communities, for tourist destinations and for the economy.

VisitEngland CEO, Patricia Yates, said:

England’s first-class attractions, from our world-renowned museums, art galleries and historic houses to our parks and gardens, remain vitally important to our tourism offer to both international and domestic visitors. By reducing the cost of public transport to these destinations, we’re removing barriers whilst supporting greener travel choices.

Our research shows people will be out exploring this weekend. I encourage you to get out and discover England’s fine attractions. Not only will you be giving our great attractions a much-needed boost, I know you will enjoy a fantastic day out with family and friends creating memories of a lifetime.