The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed that Greater Anglia, currently the UK’s most punctual operator and reigning Train Operator of the Year, will pass to a publicly owned “operator of last resort” on 12 October 2025.
The move brings a 13-year franchising era to its formal conclusion and places day-to-day responsibility for more than 1,400 route-kilometres and 133 stations across East Anglia directly under government control.
Proven performance continues under new structure
Greater Anglia will maintain its published timetables, fare structures and ticketing conditions throughout the hand-over. All 3,000-plus employees will transfer under TUPE regulations, safeguarding roles and pension rights. The operator recorded a Public Performance Measure (PPM) of 94.8 % in 2024-25, topping the national league table for a second consecutive year and carrying 82 million passenger journeys—up 9 % year-on-year.
£2 billion modernisation already delivered
Since taking over the franchise in 2012, Greater Anglia has:
- Introduced a full fleet renewal—665 Stadler and Alstom vehicles—reducing average rolling-stock age from 28 years to under five.
- Completed station upgrades across Norwich, Cambridge, Stansted Airport and key commuter hubs.
- Cut traction energy consumption by 11 % through regenerative braking and eco-driver advisory systems.
- Partnered with community rail partnerships on biodiversity and social-value projects at 25 locations.
What changes for passengers?
- No immediate operational changes. All services, frequencies and calling patterns remain as advertised.
- Tickets and passes stay valid. Season-ticket holders and advance-purchase customers will notice no alteration to conditions of carriage.
- Customer-contact channels unaffected. Existing help-points, web portals and apps will continue to function.
Stakeholder perspectives
Managing Director Martin Beable commented:
“Our team has transformed rail travel in East Anglia, delivering a new fleet and industry-leading punctuality. Public ownership will allow us to build on those foundations while keeping passengers at the centre of every decision.”
DfT says the transition plan is “fully resourced and on schedule”, with further details on corporate structure and branding to follow later this summer.
