2008 sees the cost of train travel upped again but will this really put people off travelling by rail?
As expected there has been mass criticism over the above-inflation hike on train fares.
The increase has affected both regulated and unregulated fares, with some commuters facing rises of up to 14.5%.
The rail watchdog, Passenger Focus has warned that season ticket prices will cost up to 10% for some, however there are other routes where many commuters will be hit particularly hard.
Anthony Smith, chief executive of Passenger Focus, believes passengers are well within their rights to complain about the increased fares.
“Steep rises on individual routes are masked by the average figures published by the industry. These unjustified and unfair rises will rankle. Train companies that are not delivering a quality service should freeze their prices. Passengers who are not getting what they have paid for must complain to their train company so the message is received loud and clear.”
The government has also come under recent criticism for their pledges to get people walking and reduce the effects climate change and pollution by Stephen Joseph, executive director of the Campaign for Better Transport.
He said: "These fare spikes are bad for people and bad for the environment. Once again, the Government is talking tall but walking short when it comes to ensuring the transport sector tackles climate change. If it is serious about tackling climate change, it must ensure train journeys are an attractive, affordable option."
Despite public protest, The Department for Transport maintain that the rise in fares are essential for the future of public transport and have not put anyone off traveling by train.
A Department for Transport spokesman said: "Passenger numbers are at record levels, making a nonsense of suggestions that people are being priced off the railway.” This growth, along with sustained investment by the government, is helping pay for major investment in the network."
