The Railway Act 1825

The Railway Act 1825 was a pioneering legislation in Britain that set the legal framework for constructing and operating railways. It established procedures for getting approval to build railway lines, addressed safety standards, and outlined those responsible for maintenance. The Act aimed to standardize development, prevent conflicts, and promote safe, efficient railway transportation, facilitating the rapid growth of rail networks during the Industrial Revolution. Essentially, it provided the legal foundation necessary for the expansion of railways, which transformed transportation and commerce in the UK.