An innovative system to track train cancellations and increase operator accountability to passengers has been launched in Reading.
The Department for Transport has launched its performance data tracker that went live at Reading train station and more than 1,700 other stations today (Thursday, March 6).
The data, broken down by operator, shows the percentage of trains cancelled and how punctual trains are at each station, marking the first time that station-level data has been available in the history of the railway.
It is now live at major stations through digital screens, where possible, and at most smaller stations, passengers will be able to scan a QR code to see the data online.
Heidi Alexander, the transport secretary and Labour MP for Swindon South, said: “Today marks the beginning of a new era of rail accountability.
“These displays are a step towards rebuilding trust with passengers using our railways, as we continue to tackle the root causes of frustrating delays and cancellations.
“Through fundamental rail reform, we’re sweeping away decades of dysfunctionality – putting passengers first, driving growth through connectivity as part of this government’s Plan for Change.”
Each station’s data can also be found on the Office of Rail and Road’s new data portal, which contains punctuality and reliability information for all stations in Great Britain.
The online data is also screen reader compatible, for those with accessibility needs.
Data shows that 76.5 per cent of trains arrive within three minutes of the scheduled arrival time at Reading station.
Jacqueline Starr, chair and chief executive of Rail Delivery Group, said: “We know how frustrating it is for customers when their train is cancelled or delayed.
“By being transparent with this data and the positive actions we’re taking, it shows how serious the industry is in putting this right by continuing to strive for improvements.
“This sends a clear message to customers that the rail sector is committed to improving punctuality and to find solutions to make train services more reliable.”
Natasha Grice, director of the independent watchdog Transport Focus, added: “Passengers tell us they want a reliable, on-time train service and will welcome improvements to information about the punctuality of their service and cancellations being shared more transparently. It’s important that the industry uses this information to drive up performance.”
It comes as the Labour government is engaging in a general election manifesto commitment to renationalise train operators.
The government claims its Public Ownership Act will improve services and save taxpayers up to £150 million a year ‘that was previously given to private shareholders’.
South Western Railway, which runs trains between Reading to London Waterloo via Earley, Winnersh, Wokingham and Bracknell will be renationalised this May.
