Train operators will always seek any opportunity to increase revenue, whether this is through fares, refreshments, or car parking charges. Equally, unions and passengers will continue to oppose these increases.

Even small increases do add up, and commuters especially will be hit hard by charges such as the ones reported at Southeastern.

Raising charges in car parks is also counter intuitive to the idea of promoting integration of transport, and making stations accessible. Many who use stations require a car journey to reach this point, and could be persuaded to take the whole trip by car if charges rise too high.

This then has both environmental consequences and causes problems for the rail companies who may be gaining higher parking fees but losing potential customers on the train.