Greater Anglia, the rail operator serving eastern England and London, will transition to public ownership on October 12th, the company announced.
The transfer to public control will not affect train services, schedules, station amenities, or employee positions, according to the operator.
Managing Director Martin Beable confirmed the company’s continued focus on service delivery. The Department for Transport (DfT) also stated its commitment to a smooth transition.
Greater Anglia’s network spans Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire, including the Stansted Express airport service.
While a December announcement projected nationalization by 2025, the accelerated timeline reflects the government’s broader rail policy shift.
The government anticipates savings of up to £150 million through nationalization, aiming to reduce delays and cancellations.
A DfT spokesperson explained that integrating track and train operations under public ownership will enhance long-term value for taxpayers, ensuring a seamless transition for passengers.
This follows the nationalization of South Western Railway this month and c2c in July, as part of a larger government initiative.
The Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act 2024, passed in November, empowers the government to undertake this initiative.
The government’s plan involves establishing Great British Railways (GBR) to manage service contracts as existing private contracts expire.
Colchester MP Pam Cox expressed pride in supporting the act, anticipating improved and more reliable rail services.
Conversely, Conservative MP Jerome Mayhew voiced concern over potential increased taxpayer costs, particularly regarding rolling stock leasing.
He argued that nationalization risks compromising a high-performing operator based on ideological grounds, citing Greater Anglia’s strong customer satisfaction and reliability record.
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