Petition · past parliament · Department for Transport

To consider a Rail Enthusiasts Railcard to do trainspotting at railway stations.

Closed 729 signatures

What the petition asks

Trainspotting is a hobby which is open to all ages & only requires a notebook & a pencil, or a camera to record photos/videos of trains.
At some stations there are ticket barriers. This means spotters are encountering these to pursue the hobby. If a railcard was introduced they’ll be able to this.
It could be priced at £10 for 1 year, or £25 for 3 years. A benefit to station staff so they know who they are in the event of an security alert.

Spotters would scan their card at the barriers and be able to access the platforms. The card would only be used to practise trainspotting and not valid for train travel.

They’ll be faced with security checks to ensure that they’re not on a police watchdog or have a criminal record. Their cards would be cancelled as they maybe a threat to the Public.

Timeline

24 Jul 2020 Petition opened for signatures
24 Jan 2021 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 729
Status Closed
Department Department for Transport
Opened 24 Jul 2020
Closed 24 Jan 2021

Follow this petition

Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.

Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.