Ticket offices 'could be spared' as watchdogs want bosses to agree concessions

1223     0
Train operating companies have put forward proposals to shut 974 ticket offices (Image: Maureen McLean/REX/Shutterstock)
Train operating companies have put forward proposals to shut 974 ticket offices (Image: Maureen McLean/REX/Shutterstock)

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.

Former McDonald's worker shares best money-saving hack - but there's a catch eiqeeiqteiqqzprwFormer McDonald's worker shares best money-saving hack - but there's a catch

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.”

Graham Hiscott

Save Our Ticket Offices, Daily Mirror, Redundancy, Save money, Job losses, Mark Harper, RMT union

Read more similar news:

02.01.2023, 14:09 • Money
£8 item which makes your home 'instantly warmer' can slash energy bills by £100s
03.01.2023, 10:16 • Money
Huge Argos January sale offer sees £70 slashed off Tefal air fryer
03.01.2023, 12:40 • Lifestyle
Holly Willoughby’s This Morning outfit is in the sale with 50% off
03.01.2023, 13:33 • Money
Mrs Hinch fan transforms kitchen for £70 using vinyl wrap and Facebook freebie
03.01.2023, 15:39 • Money
Golden rule shows how much you should really be saving into your pension
03.01.2023, 16:08 • Money
Aldi's £30 halogen air fryer that's 'great for cooking healthier meals' is back
03.01.2023, 16:19 • Money
Aldi shoppers go wild for 'classy' £30 duvet set that comes in 'stunning colour'
04.01.2023, 11:03 • Money
Top 12 unused household items you could sell on eBay to easily score £1,200
04.01.2023, 14:49 • Money
One savvy saver cleared £8,000 worth of debt with four easy tricks
04.01.2023, 15:56 • Money
Shoppers say £14 hooded blanket is 'better than Oodie' and slashes heating bills