Rail fares capped amid competition concerns

Fares on a rail route look set to be capped amid competition concerns.

An investigation into the acquisition by Arriva Rail North Limited of the Northern Rail franchise has raised concerns about a lack of choice of operator for passengers on three routes across the country.

These include the Leeds to Sheffield and Wakefield to Sheffield routes and, the CMA has found, this lack of choice could lead to Arriva raising its fares.

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To ensure a fairer system for customers, the CMA has now decided to cap unregulated fares for passengers on these journeys.

Inquiry chairman Phil Evans said this was to protect customers. “In order to protect their interests, we are bringing in targeted price caps on the affected journeys, which will still allow Arriva to deliver its overall commitment to bring a range of benefits to passengers through the Northern rail franchise, such as better trains and improved customer service.”