Council contacts Department for Transport over proposal to close train station ticket offices
A motion was passed at Full Council held in July to contact the Department for Transport around the proposal to close almost all staffed train station ticket offices in England.
This follows changes to the Government’s guidance relating to ticket office opening hours and operation.
Ticket offices provide a vital service to people all over the UK, they support passenger safety, security and accessibility. It’s extremely important to have a central place in the station for people requiring advice and assistance to provide certainty and confidence for customers who may struggle to locate station staff otherwise and also to act as a point of safety for passengers.
Councillor Lloyd Briscoe, Executive Member – Economy, Enterprise and Transport said: “The motion was passed as a whole Council, which showcases the importance of this situation and the need to raise the negative impact that closing ticket offices will have on vulnerable people, as well as the number of jobs that will be lost, in this challenging economic climate.
“It’s extremely important that residents support this and have their say so we can make the case for these accessible services. The Council and others have fought for the consultation on this proposal to be extended, highlighting the need for staffed ticket offices in Stevenage and other vital locations. These are essential services that help to ensure everyone can travel safely and confidently. We urge you to submit your views before 1 September to ensure your feedback is taken on board.”,
You can submit responses via post to Transport Focus at the Freepost address: TEH-XAGE-BYKZ, PO Box 5594, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 9PZ.
More information is displayed at each of the stations, as well as on the train operating company’s website too. A copy of the response from Huw Merriman MP, Minister of State for Transport and can be found below.
