Registration and refreshments
08:45 to
09:30
Chair’s welcome and opening remarks
09:30 to
09:40
Keynote address: Delivering rail reforms – key priorities and next steps for navigating a new industry landscape
09:40 to
10:05
- The latest updates on the Rail Reform Bill – how will policy changes be implemented?
- Bringing franchised passenger services into public ownership by October 2027 – where are we now?
- How will the new framework support more reliable, efficient, and accessible journeys?
The progress with establishing Great British Railways – moving from a fragmented model to a single direct organisation
10:05 to
10:30
- Plans and timelines for GBR – how should the sector prepare for this transition?
- How will GBR be designed and what will be its new responsibilities?
- Aligning track and train – how will this be achieved?
- The future of fares under GBR – ensuring the railway is more affordable and delivers value for money
Regulating a reformed rail sector
10:30 to
10:55
Morning refreshments
10:55 to
11:25
Panel discussion: How will the rail sector evolve through major reforms? Policy implications and what is needed to build confidence across the industry
11:25 to
12:10
- Understanding the potential benefits and risks of uniting the network
- Who will lead future investment and what role will third parties play?
- Are reforms doing enough to providing certainty for the sector and supply chains?
- The future of open access – what will this look like under GBR?
Rail freight in 2026: Delivering freight growth and the role of freight in a reformed rail industry
12:10 to
12:35
- Opportunities and challenges for rail freight
- Freight and rail reform
Networking lunch
12:35 to
13:35
Panel discussion: The role of devolution in unlocking faster delivery of rail infrastructure and improved passenger outcomes
13:35 to
14:20
- Delivering the rail infrastructure needed and better services through increased local decision-making
- Aligning greater devolved powers with the national network plans and development
- How will GBR work with devolved combined authorities?
- Progress and outcomes of the Integrated Transport Plan – delivering improved rail connectivity and a joined up journey
Driving innovation in the rail sector – advancing new technologies to increase efficiency and modernise assets
14:20 to
14:45
- What is needed to accelerate the adoption of new technologies?
- Maximising the potential of AI developments for the industry – where can AI add value?
- Upgrading aging infrastructure – making integration with modern technologies easier and more affordable
Afternoon refreshments
14:45 to
15:15
What’s next for rail infrastructure? Update on the current pipeline of projects and plans for further development
15:15 to
16:00
- Progress and timelines for major projects
- Available funding for rail infrastructure
- Establishing the needs and benefits of rail infrastructure – what is the business case?
Delivering a greener and more sustainable railway – the progress with decarbonisation
16:00 to
16:25
- The latest on traction decarbonisation – crucial insight on hybrid fleets, alternative fuels, and hydrogen
- Plans for electrification across the UK – where is electrification being delivered?
- What does reform mean for decarbonisation and rolling stock?
Panel Discussion: Improving customer experience – understanding passenger expectations and creating a better customer journey
16:25 to
17:00
- Establishing the Passenger Standards Authority – what will this mean for improving passenger experience?
- What are customer expectations of rail? How is the sector performing against these?
- Maximising integration and removing barriers to improve accessibility
- Communicating clearly with customers from ticket purchase and fares during disruptions
Chair’s closing remarks
17:00 to
17:10
Close of conference and networking drinks
17:10 to
17:30