Mayor Dave - Government Fares Hike Adds 'Insult to Injury' for Local Rail Users

Mayor Dave Hodgson has slammed today's Government announcement of regulated rail fare rises of up to 3.6% from January 2018 as adding 'insult to injury' for local rail users worried about the loss of peak-time intercity fast services from Bedford.

Commenting, Mayor Dave Hodgson said: "By announcing another big fares hike, the Government is adding insult to injury for local rail users. Not only is Bedford facing the prospect of a slower, poorer rail service with the proposed loss of peak-time intercity fast trains, but people are being forced to pay more and more in fares.'

"We will fight the loss of intercity peak trains every step of the way on behalf of concerned rail users, and I encourage everyone to have their own say in the Government's consultation."

In further comments on his facebook page, Mayor Dave again encouraged people to have their say on the Government's "appalling plans" by taking part in its consultation. The proposals, along with details of how to take part in the consultation, can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/future-of-east-midlands-rail-franchise