Guidance
English rail devolution applications
Guidance for mayoral strategic authorities on applying for full statutory and financial responsibility for local rail services, infrastructure and stations.
Applies to England
Documents
Details
Mayoral strategic authorities (MSAs) can apply for full statutory and financial responsibility for local rail services, infrastructure and/or control of stations (full devolution), where this accelerates improvements for passengers and supports a more integrated network.
This guidance:
- details the process the Secretary of State for Transport will follow prior to any decision to exercise powers under Section 24 of the Railways Act 1993 (which is subject to amendment via the Railways Bill)
- applies to applications submitted from 12 December 2025
- provides a clear process and timeline for submitting applications – pre and post the establishment of Great British Railways (GBR)
- clarifies the requirements, conditions and assessment criteria that will be considered when assessing applications for full devolution
- supports MSAs in developing robust business cases
- ensures consistency in how the Department for Transport (with input from GBR, once established) will handle applications
Updates to this page
Published 12 December 2025