The Labour Government has confirmed a freeze on rail fares for the first time in thirty years. This landmark decision is fantastic news for our community in Welwyn Hatfield and will provide real financial relief for the thousands of local residents who rely on rail services every day.

For years commuters have faced rising costs. A fare increase of 5.8 per cent had been expected, placing even greater pressure on our household budgets. The Labour Government has taken decisive action to prevent that rise and to make sure that travelling to work, to study or to visit family remains affordable for everyone.

This freeze means real savings for people across our community. Annual season ticket holders travelling into London will now save:

Hatfield £207
Welwyn Garden City £222
Brookmans Park £168
Welham Green £187
Welwyn North £233

These savings will make a meaningful difference to families and workers across Welwyn Hatfield and underline the commitment of the Labour Government to easing the cost of living and supporting our local economy.

Andrew Lewin MP highlighted the importance of this intervention for our community:

“This is the first time a government has frozen rail fares for thirty years and thousands of commuters across Welwyn Hatfield will feel the benefit.

If you buy an annual season ticket from Hatfield you will save £207 next year. If you travel from Welwyn Garden City the saving will be £222.

Prior to this announcement, prices were projected to increase by 5.8 per cent. That is no longer going ahead and commuters can rest easy that their tickets will not be increasing in price in 2026.

I hope that the central theme of the Budget this week will be support on the cost of living.

The freeze on fares is an excellent start from a Labour Government determined to help get a grip on prices and to support public transport.”

Labour’s decision to freeze fares on season tickets, peak commuter journeys and off peak returns between major cities will save some passengers more than £300 each year. With transport costs making up a significant part of household spending, the move will put money directly back into the pockets of working people. It also limits inflation by holding down a major everyday cost.

For Welwyn Hatfield this is not just a technical announcement. It is a practical step that will be felt across all our towns and villages. It supports residents by keeping more disposable income in the community and reflects the Labour Government’s commitment to economic stability and giving our families the breathing room they deserve.