The Passenger Railway Services (Public Ownership) Act is one of the first pieces of legislation to be taken through Parliament by the new government.
It allows ministers to take rail companies back into public ownership when their existing contracts expire.
With Greater Anglia’s original contract already expired but on a discretionary extension and c2c’s ending next July, it was always expected that the two companies would be among the first to be renationalised.
The two companies will follow South Western Railway in returning to public ownership during 2025.
Some have criticised the plans, arguing that public ownership will not make much difference unless it is paired with investment in the railways.
Labour MPs in the region, however, have welcomed the news.
Alice MacDonald, the MP for Norwich North, said: “The trains aren’t working for people and that’s what we need to change. Ultimately, what this will mean is a better service for customers.”
Jen Craft, Labour MP for Thurrock, added: “As a frequent commuter on c2c, I’m really pleased that this will be one of the first franchises to be brought into public ownership.
“This move will deliver better value for money for taxpayers and passengers alike, and put passengers like myself and many of my constituents at the heart of decision-making on the network.”