The UK Department for Transport considers scrapping first class compartments under proposals for the next Southeastern rail franchise in an attempt to create more space on commuter trains.
The government is considering making all trains one standard class. While the Department for Transport could extend the length of some trains, possibly up to 12 carriages, that could involve costly infrastructure work at many stations and along the line, whereas scrapping first class would be a quick way to free up space.
Trains could also be refurbished in “metro style” – removing traditional seating in favour of sideways-facing seats and more standing space.
The busy commuter network handles 640,000 passenger journeys on 1,900 train services every weekday.
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