Developing GBR’s charges and performance schemes
Early engagement with industry throughout 2026 as we prepare charges and performance options for GBR ahead of formal consultation in 2027.
The Railways Bill entered Parliament on 5 November 2025, marking a major step in the UK Government’s rail reform programme. The Bill will establish Great British Railways (GBR) as the single directing mind for the railway, responsible for both rail infrastructure and publicly funded passenger services.
Once enacted, responsibility for setting track access charges and determining the performance schemes will transfer to GBR. These frameworks will apply to operators outside GBR, including charter operators, devolved services, freight operators, and open access operators.
As part of the transition, the Department for Transport has asked Network Rail to begin developing GBR’s Charges and Performance Schemes for Funding Period 1 (2029–2034). This requires a review of the existing charging framework and industry performance schemes to ensure they align with the new legislation and are fit for the new industry structure.
Reviews of this scale take time, and early input from affected stakeholders is essential. In 2026, Network Rail will run a programme of Early Industry Engagement to explore important charges and performance matters in an open and collaborative way.
Industry workshops will allow stakeholders to explore emerging approaches, test ideas, and share perspectives before formal GBR consultation in 2027. The aim is to build shared priorities early and ensure future proposals are practical, transparent, and proportionate.
This page will be kept up to date with workshop dates, materials, and engagement opportunities. In the meantime, you can contact the team via our dedicated inbox: chargesandperformanceschemes@networkrail.co.uk.