Top Ten Most Overcrowded trains: GWR response

Responding to the publication of the Department for Transport’s Top Ten most overcrowded train services, a GWR spokesperson said the continuing work to electrify the Great Western network, alongside wholesale upgrade of its commuter 'Electrostar' fleet in the Thames Valley and its long distance services was starting to pay dividends for customers, but stressed there were more improvements to come.  

“From operating all ten of the top ten most overcrowded services in 2010 to just one service last year, we are pleased our work to transform our fleet means we are no longer included in this list; but there is still much to do.

“We continue to be focussed on improving the experience for our customers when they travel with us. The biggest introduction of new and more modern trains in a generation continues to transform GWR services, improving capacity, comfort and customer experience.

“However, this work has come at a price and has put pressure on punctuality and reliability of our services. We continue to work with industry partners and Network Rail, who manage the infrastructure to improve the punctuality and performance of our services.”