UPDATE: A new survey reveals a dramatic drop in confidence within the UK rail market, prompting urgent concern among industry leaders. Conducted by independent polling firm Savanta in October and November 2025, the survey of 125 railway business leaders indicates that 64% foresee a contraction in the market over the next year, a stark increase from 48% in 2024.
The findings show an alarming trend: nearly 62% of rail businesses are either freezing recruitment or actively reducing their workforce, with 34% reporting redundancies. Furthermore, a staggering 85% believe there will be a significant hiatus in rail work in the coming year, raising immediate concerns about the future of the industry.
Darren Caplan, Chief Executive of the Railway Industry Association (RIA), called the results “concerning.” He stated, “Rail passenger, freight, and revenue levels are rising, and more capacity will be required in the future, yet confidence in the UK rail market is falling.” Caplan emphasized the need for urgent action to prevent skilled workers from leaving the sector for more stable opportunities.
While 12% of leaders expressed optimism about growth, down from 26% in 2024, the survey’s data indicates a troubling shift. Companies are prioritizing work outside the UK and halting recruitment in response to the perceived instability.
The RIA has consistently warned about the cycle of ‘boom and bust’ in rail infrastructure investment. “This survey is further evidence that more needs to be done to give rail suppliers the confidence they need to compete for work,” Caplan added. He urged the government to provide detailed plans for rail enhancement projects and a clear rolling stock strategy to stabilize the market.
Key rail projects such as the Transpennine Route Upgrade, East West Rail, and the Docklands Light Rail extension are highlighted as vital to restoring confidence. However, without immediate action from major rail clients and government officials, the future remains uncertain.
The RIA and its members are calling for prompt clarity on funding plans and spending strategies to mitigate the current crisis. These steps are crucial to ensuring that the rail industry can retain talent and effectively plan for the future.
As the rail sector grapples with this urgent situation, stakeholders are left contemplating the implications for jobs, investment, and infrastructure development across the UK. The time for decisive action is now—failure to act risks losing skilled professionals to other sectors and overseas markets.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
