AllRail Advocates for UK Integration into the Single European Railway Network

According to AllRail, integrating the UK into the single European Railway area (SERA) would foster a modern and practical partnership that benefits citizens, businesses, and the habitat.

The recent UK-EU Summit on May 19 aimed to refresh ties between the UK and Europe. In light of this, AllRail—a coalition of new players in the passenger rail sector—argued that aligning more closely with EU rail standards could yield immediate advantages.

AllRail emphasized that EU rail policies are not just about red tape; they have evolved into a dynamic force driving innovation and enhancing customer experiences.

SERA was established through Directive 2012/34/EU to boost competition and attract investment. this framework encourages open access for passenger services, competitive bidding for contracts tied to public service obligations, and expanded rights for railway companies regarding infrastructure access.The overarching goal is straightforward: any operator should be able to run services across any EU network seamlessly.

Navigating ongoing negotiations related to parts of the new trade agreement between the UK and EU is crucial. nick Brooks, Secretary General of allrail, expressed optimism that embracing SERA would facilitate smoother trade routes and travel experiences. “Let’s put rail at the heart of this renewed cooperation,” he said.