Passengers across England can now access real-time performance data for local train services, marking progress towards increased transparency and accountability in the rail industry.
From 6 March 2025, performance data for over 1,700 stations is being displayed publicly, offering detailed information on the punctuality and reliability of train services.
This new initiative allows passengers to see the percentage of trains that are cancelled and how punctual trains are at individual stations. The data is broken down by train operator and is available at major stations through digital displays. For smaller stations, passengers can access the same data online by scanning a QR code.
This move follows a commitment made by the Department for Transport (DfT) to provide greater transparency to passengers. By making station-level performance data accessible for the first time, the public can hold train operators accountable for the quality and reliability of services. The government views this as a key part of its Plan for Change, which aims to improve connectivity and support economic growth.
The transparency of this data is expected to encourage operators to enhance their efficiency and productivity.
In addition to the punctuality data, the digital displays at stations will provide brief updates on the work being done by operators and Network Rail to improve performance. This will help reassure passengers that efforts are underway to enhance the reliability and efficiency of services in their local area.
To mark the launch of the new displays, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander visited Reading station on 6 March 2025.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander 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.
The new data is also available on the Office of Rail and Road’s (ORR) new data portal, which includes punctuality and reliability information for all stations in Great Britain. The online data portal is accessible for those with visual impairments, as it is screen reader compatible.
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 the rail sector is committed to improving punctuality and to find solutions to make train services more reliable.
The publication of performance data is part of a wider overhaul of the rail industry. The establishment of Great British Railways (GBR), a new body designed to unify track and train operations, aims to end years of fragmentation and inefficiency. GBR will focus on raising standards for passengers, and proposals for its operation, including plans for a new passenger standards watchdog, are currently under consultation.
In addition, the landmark Public Ownership Act is expected to save taxpayers up to 150 million GBP annually by reducing payments previously made to private shareholders. The first services are due to be brought into public ownership as early as May 2025.
The government’s wider reforms aim to drive improvements in performance. The Rail Minister is meeting with all train operators to address concerns and demand immediate action. In response, the industry has outlined a framework to focus on key areas such as timetable resilience and staffing, with the goal of recovering performance to acceptable levels.
