The annual increase in UK rail fares that takes place in January has been postponed until March, the government has announced.
Fares normally rise by an amount calculated as the rate of inflation (RPI) in July of the previous year plus one per cent.
The 2021 increase of 2.6 per cent - almost three times as high as the most recent figure for the RPI index - was due to come into effect on Monday 4 January but now will not happen until 1 March.
The government says the rise in fares reflects “the need to continue investing in modernising the network, improving punctuality and reliability, and also recognises the unprecedented taxpayer support over the last 12 months”.
It said it has invested more than £4 billion on keeping services running during the pandemic so far, a figure that it expects to rise to £10 billion.
Rail minister Chris Heaton-Harris said: “By setting fares sensibly, and with the lowest actual increase for four years, we’re ensuring that taxpayers are not overburdened for their unprecedented contribution, ensuring investment is focused on keeping vital services running and protecting frontline jobs.”
However, he added a note of caution.
He said, “The guidance remains that you should reduce the number of journeys you make wherever possible. Walk or cycle where possible, and plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes on public transport. This will allow you to practise social distancing while you travel. If you’re in Tier 3, you should avoid travelling outside of your area.”
Anthony Smith, chief executive of the independent watchdog Transport Focus, said: “This fare increase makes it even more important that, when travel restrictions start to be lifted, the industry is able to attract people back by offering fares that match how we know people hope to live, work and travel in future. This could mean new flexible season tickets which offer better value for part-time commuters, and other tickets based on how people want to use the railway.”