The Failures of UK Rail Privatization

This chapter analyzes the shortcomings of rail privatization in the UK, highlighting that passenger growth predated privatization and was driven by macroeconomic factors. It discusses the negative impacts of fragmentation in the railway system, illustrated by the 2018 timetable collapse, and challenges the belief that new rail projects are unnecessary due to low demand. The conversation advocates for a visionary approach to rail planning that considers long-term societal benefits rather than short-sighted ridership metrics.