Commuters face big increase in rail fares

The Retail Prices Index (RPI), which is used to calculate train fares, increased to 3.2 per cent in July. And rail users across England will face fare increases of that figure plus a further three per cent.

That means commuters from the area’s four stations – Luton Airport Parkway, Luton, Leagrave and Harlington – could pay as much as £278 more for a season ticket per year. For example, a standard season ticket from Leagrave train station to any station in London zones one to six would have cost £4,484 this year, but will set passengers back at least £4,762 from January.

Commuters voiced their anger at the proposed price increases. Kim Taylor Gouck said on our Facebook page: “All they are doing is forcing us back into our cars as it would now be cheaper.”

Laura Farrar added: “What a ridiculous price hike! How are commuters going to be able to pay out that?” On our Twitter page, Kev Lennon said: “Are they offering reductions for standing fares or being crammed in like an animal off to the slaughter house #ripoff”

> Do you think rail fares are good value for money? Would you be happy to pay an extra 6.2 per cent? Our contact details are on page 2.