Our commitments to a better railway
It has now been 100 days since Southern was brought under public ownership.
Whilst we are constantly looking at ways to enhance and improve our railway, we wanted to share the progress we have already made in the areas that matter most.
More reliable services
- We have invested in a more resilient railway by installing a secondary signalling system in the core of our network, one of the busiest and most important parts of our railway. It has already helped prevent a failure that would usually have caused hundreds of delays and cancellations for passengers across the network.
- Our workforce has been strengthened by increasing driver numbers, helping us to reduce train crew-related cancellations by 74%. Our recruitment programme has delivered a 7% uplift in driver numbers this year, which – at the end of 2026 – will account for a 12% increase overall since 2024.
Better trains and stations
- We have improved the look and feel of our Thameslink Class 700 fleet through a £3.6 million programme to improve train cleanliness and raise standards for customers. 111 trains have been deep cleaned, 34 polished, and 251 of 455 toilets refreshed so far.
- Our train stations are easier to navigate, thanks to our Model Station concept. This initiative is helping to create a blueprint for our entire network that improves the look and feel of stations through cleanliness, maintenance and clearer signage.
- We helped to bring a brand new train station to Cambridgeshire, connecting people to homes, jobs and opportunities across the region. More than 110,000 journeys took place via Cambridge South in its first month.
Enhanced customer experience
- With clearer signage and advertising, we increased awareness of how quick and easy it is to travel to both Gatwick and Luton airports using our network.
- Gatwick Airport station also benefitted from updated signage, new ticket vending machines, are airside retail units. In addition, a pilot scheme was launched in July with additional early morning and overnight services, providing better connections for holidaymakers.
- New uniform is rolling to 5,000 frontline employees to provide a stronger brand presence and a more consistent look and feel, making it easier for customers to identify staff members.
Be safe, feel safe, travel safe
- We are providing more visible support across the network, with 110 Travel Safe Officers available to help customers, support colleagues and provide a reassuring presence on our network.