Swindon South MP says Great British Railways could own new trains

Speaking at the Labour Party Conference on Monday 28 September 2026, Heidi Alexander, the MP for Swindon South and Transport Secretary, said the Government would look at whether Great British Railways (GBR) should directly own newly ordered trains. Swindon24 reported the speech on Tuesday 29 September.

What would change?

For nearly three decades most passenger trains have not been owned by the companies that run them. They are leased from private rolling stock companies. Swindon24, citing the Department for Transport, said franchised operators spent more than £4 billion in 2024 leasing and maintaining trains they did not own.

Ms Alexander said: "If GBR owning trains would best serve taxpayers and passengers then we should do it."

What does it mean for Swindon station?

Great Western Railway runs most of the passenger services through Swindon station. According to the report, GWR's services are due to transfer to public ownership on 13 December 2026. Ms Alexander said ten train operating companies are now publicly owned, with Great Western next.

The report also noted a recent Government announcement of around £1 billion for 29 new British-built battery-electric trains for services in the North.

Jim Robbins, leader of the Labour party in Swindon, said Ms Alexander was "making a real difference".

More from Swindo: Swindon railway station guide.

Source: Swindon24.