New development: The purpose and planning of railways in the 21st century

Most people in Great Britain consider the national passenger railway system as essential. Yet little evidence exists about the system's roles and impacts or the benefits from substantial public funding. This article examines these issues, following recent government reports. It argues that the railway system's role must be fully established, to understand what level of public money should be committed, and that the franchising processes should engage local as well as national interests, both public and private.