About ORR
We protect the interests of rail and road users. We are improving the safety, value and performance of railways and roads, today and in the future.
Our railway health, safety, economic and road functions overall are driven by UK and EU legislation. We are accountable to Parliament and the public to protect the people who use, interact or work on the railway; ensure fair access to a rail network which is becoming increasingly congested; ensure Highways England delivers its major programme of investment and other performance commitments; and protect the interests of future users by working with the industry and funders as they develop the network of tomorrow.
Who we are
As an independent regulator, we operate within the framework set by UK and EU legislation and are accountable through Parliament and the courts.
What we do
We regulate the rail industry's health and safety performance, we hold Network Rail and other rail infrastructure networks to account and we make sure that the rail industry is competitive and fair.
How we work
We plan our annual activities in the context of our long-term vision, based on our strategic objectives as an independent regulator.
Who we work with
We work alongside rail infrastructure companies, the Westminster, Scottish and Welsh governments, other safety bodies and companies in the industry.
How we are funded
We are funded by the rail industry through licence fees and safety levies. Our road functions are funded by the Department for Transport.
Supplying ORR
We make sure we get value for money when buying the goods and services we need to carry out our role as a regulator.
Corporate data
We publish data and information about ORR as part of our commitment to transparency.