New Great British Railways (GBR) trains will aim to have unassisted level boarding between the train and the platform as standard, the Transport Secretary has confirmed. This commitment forms part of the government's strategy for new trains, announced on 28 September 2026.
GBR will make unassisted level boarding a baseline expectation for all new trains wherever possible, in a move towards greater accessibility across the rail network. This is intended to benefit passengers with disabilities, mobility difficulties, parents with pushchairs, and those travelling with luggage, by providing easier journeys and more freedom to travel independently.
The government is also investing almost £280 million in step-free access through the Access for All programme, with over 30 schemes currently underway across England, Scotland, and Wales. This builds on last year’s Roadmap to an Accessible Railway.