Chiltern Railways enters public ownership under Great British Railways

Chiltern Railways has transitioned into public ownership, marking the tenth rail company to be brought under the control of Great British Railways (GBR) as part of a government renationalisation programme. The operator, which has been private since 1996, provides services connecting London Marylebone to the West Midlands, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Warwickshire.

To address overcrowding, the government has announced a significant capacity increase scheduled for December. This includes 25 additional daily weekday services, providing approximately 10,000 extra weekday seats and half-hourly services on the Chiltern Main Line between London and Birmingham. Weekend capacity is also expected to rise.

The transition includes a £12 million refurbishment of the existing Class 168 fleet, featuring upgraded Wi-Fi, power outlets, and USB charging. Additionally, six new Chiltern Explorer trains will enter service to complete a dedicated fleet of 13 units, offering improved accessibility and air conditioning. Rail minister Lord Peter Hendy met with staff at Marylebone Station to mark the changeover.