Thales’ round table set out to examine the obstacles and opportunities of achieving long-held aspirations in rail, against a backdrop of funding and performance challenges.

The main underlying question was whether modal shift is genuinely achievable, and whether rail can fulfil its promise as the greener option in the future, given the rapid development in other modes of transportation. The session was run under Chatham House rules so individual contributions are not attributable.

Key themes emerging from the discussion include:

Is UK train service up to date and how does it compare to services across Europe and other parts of the world?
What does the younger generation think about the industry and travelling on trains?
How do we approach current challenge, politically and financially?
Are we approaching and speaking to the right people?

Specific comments from participants include:

Understanding what the customer wants…

“As an industry, it's imperative that we grasp what individuals truly desire from our services. Is it luxurious amenities, affordability, or perhaps something entirely different?

“Prioritising an understanding of the needs and preferences of our customers should be our foremost concern. Notably, younger generations are increasingly drawn to car ownership. This shift can be attributed to several factors, including the high fares associated with train travel, perceived unreliability, and discomfort during journeys.

“By acknowledging these trends and recognising the challenges faced by potential train travellers, we can begin to address underlying issues within our industry. This might involve reassessing pricing structures, enhancing reliability, and improving overall comfort to better meet the evolving expectations of our passengers, particularly the younger demographic.”

“One of the critical deficiencies we face is the insufficient provision of parking stations at many train stations which poses significant challenges for commuters aiming to access train services.

“Consequently, many opt to commute via personal vehicles to the office. It is imperative that we prioritise investment to address this issue. Often, we overlook the importance of prioritising quality over lower costs. This tendency to prioritise cheaper options results in projects not meeting their intended standards, ultimately leading to increased costs over time.”

“It is essential to delve deeper into the demographics of train users and the purposes for which they utilise this mode of transportation. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the diverse needs and preferences of our passengers, we can better assess the impact of train travel on various segments of society.

“Moreover, affordability plays a crucial role in accessibility to our services, and it is imperative that we prioritise strategies to ensure that train travel remains economically feasible for all individuals. Additionally, promoting our industry in a positive light is key to fostering public perception and appreciation. By highlighting the benefits and value of train travel, we can instill a sense of pride and confidence in our services, ultimately encouraging more individuals to choose trains as their preferred mode of transportation.”

“Can we adapt train schedules to better meet the needs of passengers. Is it feasible to modify peak time schedules to align more closely with customer preferences and demands. Exploring this possibility involves a deeper examination of the flexibility within existing infrastructure and operational frameworks. By considering adjustments to peak hours and service timings that prioritise customer satisfaction, we can potentially enhance the overall experience for passengers.”

What is the train for?

“To truly enhance our infrastructure, we must prioritise the public good over profit. Focusing solely on profit undermines our ability to provide the expected level of service to people.

Improving lives means considering initiatives such as free or discounted travel, as seen in many countries worldwide.

“We must also ensure affordability remains a priority, as rising fares can restrict access for many. Fortunately, numerous organisations, like the Support Community Rail Network, exist with volunteers eager to assist. These groups often receive funding from companies, showcasing the potential for collaboration and support.”

“We need to figure out if people want investment in the rail industry. Without their support, it doesn't make sense to chase after money for rail projects. So, before we go looking for funding, we should find out if people are interested in better railways. This way, we can make sure we're using our resources wisely and focusing on what people really want.”

“Trains are an excellent means of transporting a large number of people within cities, efficiently connecting one area to another. However, they may not be as suitable for smaller towns or villages. This is where we must focus on enhancing the service. The journey experience should be enjoyable, and passengers should feel a strong sense of connectivity with the service.”

Dealing with aging infrastructure

“The rail industry must concurrently develop both freight and passenger services, avoiding the prioritisation of one over the other. This balanced approach is essential due to the aging infrastructure, some of which dates back 200 years and requires modernisation. Neglecting either freight or passenger services could lead to potential issues in the future. Therefore, a comprehensive strategy that addresses the needs of both sectors is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and efficiency of the rail network.”

“Financially, the rail industry is facing significant challenges, hindering efforts to update infrastructure and impeding productivity both within and outside London. However, amidst these struggles, there are pockets of progress, such as in Manchester, where concerted efforts are underway to enhance infrastructure and boost productivity. Despite these localised advancements, the broader industry still grapples with insufficient funding, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to revitalize rail infrastructure and reignite productivity across the nation.”

“It's really important that we know exactly how much it costs to deliver projects and understand the process well. If we fail to deliver on time, it could make it harder for us to get funding in the future.

“We also need to think about the time and effort people put into investing in these projects. Getting young people interested in the industry is crucial too. We need to have conversations about how we can make them want to use trains and get involved in improving services. By getting them excited and listening to their ideas, we can build a strong and modern rail system that meets everyone's needs.”

Don’t (just) blame the politicians

“The lack of meaningful political dialogue is posing significant challenges in securing the necessary funds for infrastructure development. It's apparent that the current discussions are not yielding the desired outcomes, as we're engaging with the wrong stakeholders. Therefore, it's essential that we reevaluate our approach and identify the appropriate channels for engaging in productive political discourse. By reaching out to the right individuals and institutions, we can effectively advocate for the resources needed to drive forward infrastructure projects and address the pressing needs of our communities.”

“Currently, our political landscape hinders any significant progress due to financial constraints and unreliable government support. To truly enhance our infrastructure, we must prioritise the public good over profit. Focusing solely on profit undermines our ability to provide the expected level of service to people.

“Improving lives means considering initiatives such as free or discounted travel, as seen in many countries worldwide. We must also ensure affordability remains a priority, as rising fares can restrict access for many. Fortunately, numerous organisations, like the Support Community Rail Network, exist with volunteers eager to assist. These groups often receive funding from companies, showcasing the potential for collaboration and support.”

“Simply blaming politicians won't solve anything, considering they're all elected by us. However, it's essential for us to take action ourselves. One approach could involve engaging in local discussions and initiatives to raise funds autonomously, rather than solely relying on the Department of Transport. By fostering community involvement and grassroots efforts, we can actively contribute to improving our transportation infrastructure. This approach not only empowers citizens but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for the solutions to our transportation challenges.”