Rail fare hikes 'could harm air quality'

Major rail fare rises could damage the UK's air quality by forcing more people to choose cars over trains, a pressure group has suggested.

With season ticket holders facing average price increases of 5.8 per cent from Sunday (January 2nd), Railfuture has expressed concern over the potential impact of the hikes.

Mike Crowhurst, spokesperson for the group, told the Press Association that British rail fares are already among the most expensive in Europe.

"We think this will just drive even more people on to the roads, which will result in even more congestion and pollution," he commented.

Mr Crowhurst claimed the government will "discourage people from using the greenest form of transport" if the cost of rail travel in the UK continues to rise at the current rate.

However, ministers have insisted that fare hikes are necessary to ensure continued investment in the nation's overcrowded rail network.

The Passenger Focus watchdog has warned that rail operators could face a backlash from travellers next year if train ticket prices continue to soar.

Posted by Joseph Hutton