Ministers are facing increased pressure to green-light a major transport devolution proposal that would see Transport for London (TfL) take control of a crucial commuter rail route into the capital.
Cross-Party Support for Rail Devolution
The London Assembly Transport Committee has formally backed TfL's application to assume responsibility for Great Northern train services running from Moorgate through Enfield and into Hertfordshire, serving Welwyn Garden City and Stevenage. TfL officially submitted its bid in September 2025, with the Mayor of London stating this week that securing the devolution is one of his top requests from the government.
In a significant show of cross-party support, Transport Committee Chair Elly Baker wrote to Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander on Tuesday, advocating for the move. She argued that further rail devolution in London is now essential, stating that current National Rail services are "under-performing" and "under-delivering for Londoners."
Promises of Improved Service and Housing Boost
TfL's proposal includes a commitment to increase service frequency and enhance overall quality. A key focus is Crews Hill station, currently ranked as the tenth least-used station in Greater London. Plans involve upgrading the station to support more than its current peak-time service of four trains per hour.
This upgrade is seen as critical, as Crews Hill is one of twelve towns shortlisted by ministers for mass development, potentially involving up to 21,000 new homes. TfL Commissioner Andy Lord told the TfL board last month that a takeover would allow them to improve service quality, customer experience, and align transport with shared housing and planning priorities with the GLA and Government.
Concerns and Counter-Arguments
Despite the political backing, the proposal faces scrutiny. Campaign group Railfuture has expressed doubts, partly due to the impending nationalisation of Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), which operates Great Northern, scheduled for May. There are also questions about how commuters living in Hertfordshire, outside TfL's direct remit, could hold the body accountable.
Neil Middleton, Railfuture's Vice Chair, emphasised the desire for service improvements but questioned whether TfL or the future Great British Railways would deliver them most cost-effectively for taxpayers and passengers.
A Department for Transport spokesperson confirmed the proposal remains under review, noting that any decision must "carefully consider the financial and commercial implications given the current level of taxpayer subsidy on the rail network." TfL's Commissioner has expressed hope for an 'Approval in Principle' by the end of this year, setting the stage for a pivotal decision affecting thousands of commuters and major housing plans.
