Waiting for trains late at night will be a less worrying experience under plans to expand the Secure Stations scheme.
Launched in 1998, the scheme aims to improve security at railway stations for both passengers and staff.
To be accredited as 'secure', a station must pass a passenger survey, meet national standards in management and design, and be able to prove low crime rates.
New measures will encourage more railway operators to sign up, with a more straightforward application process and scrapping of accreditation fees.
Stations not currently meeting the accreditation pass mark will also be given clearer guidance to reach the required standard.
Transport Minister Tony McNulty said:
"If we are to encourage more people to use the railway, we need to make sure that stations are made safe and secure for both passengers and staff."
Extra information
Launched in 1998, the Secure Stations scheme was designed and developed in direct association with the rail industry.
Currently 156 stations are accredited under the Secure Stations Scheme.
Approximately two thirds of all overground rail journeys and one half of all London Underground journeys involve passengers starting or finishing their journey at a Secure Station.
