Fares to rise by more than 9% as rail pressure groups hit out at ‘inflation-busting’ increases
Another body blow for those interested in sustainable transport. Looks like most people with the benefit of train station will be putting more petrol into their cars. This story tells us:
Rail groups have hit out after it emerged that fares could rise by more than nine per cent next year for some train journeys.
Inflation figures to be published next week will pave the way to average ticket price rises of around 4.3 per cent in the New Year, but train operators will be allowed to increase some fares by as much as 9.3 per cent.
It follows an average rise of 4.2 per cent on rail network in 2013 and increases twice that size on some popular routes.
The pressure group Passenger Focus called for the Government to abandon the formula that has led to a succession of “inflation-busting” fare rises – and has left Britain with some of the most expensive tickets in Europe.
David Sidebottom, the group’s director, said: “Earlier this year fares went up on average by 4.2 per cent and yet some passengers saw an increase of five per cent more. While we understand the need for flexibility, we strongly believe that this system needs to be changed.”
Rail fares for 2014 will be linked to the July inflation rate. Average regulated fares, which include most season tickets and off-peak tickets, will go up by the Retail Prices Index (RPI) plus one per cent. City analysts are forecasting an inflation rate of 3.3 per cent, meaning an average ticket rise of 4.3 per cent.
In addition, rail companies are allowed the flexibility of adding an extra five per cent for some journeys as long as they remain within the overall average.