Northern has set out a long-term strategy to increase annual rail journeys by 30 million by the end of the decade. The operator’s plan focuses on expanding demand, improving performance, and introducing new measures designed to streamline travel across the North of England.
Alex Hornby, Commercial and Customer Director for Northern, said: “Our vision for 30 by 30 is rooted in confidence and user research.
“Our data shows that the demand for rail travel is greater than ever, and with improved performance, better value and greater convenience, we can make rail the natural choice for even more people and how they travel across the North.
“This is a growth plan with purpose. It is customer-led, and we aim to deliver it alongside our stakeholder partners. It aligns closely with local ambitions, the region’s economic goals and national transport strategy.”
The company intends to boost journeys through three core areas: steady passenger growth, improved service reliability, and new initiatives such as Pay As You Go ticketing and stronger integration with other transport modes. Northern has outlined performance ambitions that include more punctual services and a reduction in cancellations, positioning reliability as a central driver of future demand.
Recent figures indicate that Northern is operating at its strongest levels since the pandemic. The operator has reported record revenue days and rising customer satisfaction, alongside continued growth in regional travel. Its network supports access to employment, education, and leisure across the North.
The strategy aligns with broader industry objectives linked to the future structure of Great British Railways. Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK and runs more than 2,600 daily services to over 500 stations across the region.
