Transport Secretary rejects plans by train operators to close ticket offices
Commenting on the decision by the Transport Secretary to reject plans by train operators to close ticket offices, James Wild MP said:
“This is the right decision that reflects my opposition to the planned closures which I’ve set out to ministers on behalf of local passengers. While many choose to buy online or at ticket machines, vulnerable people rely on the support provided by ticket office staff and stopping the closure of Lynn ticket office is welcome news for them.”
Additional information:
Transport Secretary Mark Harper MP said:
“The consultation on ticket offices has now ended, with the Government making clear to the rail industry throughout the process that any resulting proposals must meet a high threshold of serving passengers.
“We have engaged with accessibility groups throughout this process and listened carefully to passengers as well as my colleagues in Parliament. The proposals that have resulted from this process do not meet the high thresholds set by Ministers, and so the Government has asked train operators to withdraw their proposals.
“We will continue our work to reform our railways with the expansion of contactless Pay As You Go ticketing, making stations more accessible through our Access for All programme and £350 million funding through our Network North plan to improve accessibility at up to 100 stations.”
