Gatwick Express Services to Double
Millions of rail passengers across southeast England are set to see changes to their journeys as Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) officially moves into public ownership this weekend.
GTR, which operates Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express services, is Britain’s largest train company, accounting for around one in every six rail journeys nationwide. The transfer marks another major step in the government’s broader railway reform programme and plans for the future Great British Railways (GBR) network.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander described the move as a “defining moment” for rail reform, saying the government aims to run services “for the public good, not private profit.”
More Gatwick Trains and Service Improvements
Under public ownership, GTR has announced a 100-day improvement plan designed to improve reliability and passenger experience.
One of the most significant changes will be the doubling of Gatwick Express services between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport from December. Additional early-morning trains on Saturdays and Mondays will also be introduced this summer, helping both commuters and holiday travellers.
The operator also plans to recruit more than 100 additional train drivers across its networks to improve staff availability and reduce cancellations.
Safer and More Comfortable Travel
Passenger comfort and security are also part of the reform package.
GTR will begin upgrading toilets on Thameslink trains to improve cleanliness and remove graffiti, with refurbishment work planned across much of the fleet by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, 110 new Travel Safe Officers are being trained to improve onboard security, support ticket enforcement and address anti-social behaviour.
The company is also investing in signalling improvements between Farringdon and Blackfriars, a move expected to prevent more than 1,000 cancellations annually.
Better Communication During Disruption
Passengers affected by delays will soon be able to receive direct support through a new WhatsApp customer service channel, while additional online payment options are also being introduced.
A Step Toward Great British Railways
The transfer of GTR follows the recent unveiling of the first Great British Railways-branded train at Brighton station.
Once GBR is fully established, it will oversee rail operations across Britain under a unified system aimed at simplifying services, improving accountability and placing passenger needs at the centre of railway management.
GTR becomes the fifth operator to return to public ownership under the government’s rail reform legislation. Further transfers are planned, with Chiltern Railways expected to follow in September and Great Western Railway later this year.
The government says the entire public ownership programme is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
