We run one of the most heavily used commuter rail networks in Europe. Many of our peak services are very busy and we know it can be difficult to find space, despite these trains having the maximum number of carriages available. However, in some cases by travelling a little bit earlier or later than normal, you may be able to travel more comfortably on an alternative commuter service.
We regularly monitor the number of passengers using our services. By combining this information with our scheduled train lengths, we are able to launch a trial guide to help commuters travelling from five of our busiest stations to plan their journey and travel more comfortably.
This guide shows which trains have space or seats available, and those which are very busy. We are operating this trial in conjunction with the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR).
The ‘traffic light’ coding provides information about space available on peak morning and evening commuter services between London Waterloo and Basingstoke, Farnborough, Motspur Park, New Malden and Surbiton.
If you’re travelling from one of these stations, click on the link below to find out more information:
During the trial, which will take place from November 2011 to February 2012, we will work with the ORR to conduct customer research and monitor passenger data. The results of this research will help with future service planning and information for passengers. We would welcome your comments on this trial. Please contact customerrelations@swtrains.co.uk
Note: Data on the number of passengers on our trains is taken from special electronic equipment fitted across our train fleet. The number of carriages, where shown, are those scheduled to operate from that station. All trains at Motspur Park, New Malden and most of those at Surbiton are formed of eight carriages, which is the maximum length of train possible on our suburban routes.