22 October 2023 , 17:11
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Watchdogs are poised to block mass closure of rail ticket offices unless train companies make last-minute changes.
Train operating companies have put forward proposals to shut 974 ticket offices across England to save money. Passenger watchdogs Transport Focus and London Travelwatch are due to announce whether to approve or object to the controversial plans on October 31.
But “red lines” set by the watchdogs have led to an impasse, which meetings this week involving the Government and train bosses will try to resolve. The Daily Mirror is fighting to block the closures, highlighting the impact on passengers, especially the elderly, and disabled. Train firms say staff will move to platforms and concourses, but unions fear mass job losses. The firms want tickets sold online or by machines.
Critics say this penalises those who can’t, or do not want to buy tickets online, while ticket machines can be impossible for some to use, or broken. At least 680,000 contacted Transport Focus and London Travelwatch to have their say on the cull. The RMT union claims it was 750,000, with 98% against.
The watchdogs have been considering factors such as whether each station will be staffed, alternative options to buy tickets and arrangements for disabled. If agreement can’t be reached train bosses can refer the plans to Transport Secretary Mark Harper for a decision.
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A source said: “I’m sure the train companies thought this would be a done deal. But the sheer weight of opposition has made them have a major rethink.” Campaigners and the RMT claim the closure drive is being driven by ministers to save cash. The Rail Delivery Group insisted: “Ticket office facilities will remain at the busiest stations and interchanges.”