A train service from Brighton is in the top ten most overcrowded services in Britain, according to new figures from the Department for Transport (DfT).
The list, published today (Wednesday 9 September), said that the 7.24am Brighton to Bedford service was Britain’s seventh most overcrowded train.
The DfT said that the train, operated by Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), had a load factor 161 per cent. It carried 434 passengers more than its capacity of 716 when the passenger numbers were counted.
The DfT said: “Capacity includes seats and a standing allowance. Service has first class and the train is at maximum length.
“GTR is using all available rolling stock prior to delivery of new longer trains as part of the Thameslink Programme, which will increase the number of trains significantly that run between East Croydon, Blackfriars and other London Thameslink stations.
“Currently only 16 coaches in two trains arrive at London Blackfriars from Brighton via East Croydon between 8am and 8.49am.
“Once the Thameslink Programme is completed from December 2018 this will be increased to 48 coaches in four trains from Brighton with many more coaches from East Croydon in trains from other routes.”