Railing against price increases

The Government released the news on Monday that from 2012 rail prices will increase by 8 per cent on average, much to the chagrin of commuters everywhere and shadow transport secretary Maria Eagle.

We know as a country it is important to cut our carbon emissions to protect the environment and this is something that Norman Environmental feels very strongly about. Surely in rubber stamping these increases, the Government is discouraging the public to use communal transport by making it impossible for working citizens to keep up with these rises.  The first £10k season ticket is just around the corner.

Unfortunately, the cost of our lifestyles is constantly on the up, with food, petrol, clothing etc all contributing to high inflation. How is the government not taking into consideration that the wages we receive, pay for our working lifestyle? All the hard working rail-commuters out there are the ones who are being punished by this increase.

Rail prices will hit those who travel at peak times. This may encourage the elderly and the poor to travel at different times throughout the day, but what about those who are travelling to work? Do they have any other option but to pay these ridiculous prices?

Of course, there is another alternative on longer routes; to travel around Britain using low cost airlines - which can be cheaper than using the rail network. On top of that commuters will be guaranteed a seat, but what will this mean for our environment? A plane produces far greater carbon emissions than a train (up to 87% difference) but businesses and workers may not be able to think about this consequence as circumstances force them to cut costs. This is a serious issue that the government needs to tackle as for shorter commuter journeys people may start using their cars more, again not helping Britain meet our carbon targets.

The question is, can cuts be made elsewhere as train operators need continued investment to improve our lines? Perhaps some rural services need to be considered, although if cuts are made there, how will the rural communities feel? A clear and acceptable strategy needs to be drawn up with consultation from those that matter; the public.

If you are concerned about how your own travel and other habits effect the environment, then click here and complete our Carbon Footprint online form to see what you can do to reduce your environmental impact.