Closing ticket offices will worsen the passenger experience and impact safety, security and accessibility. Photo credit: Shutterstock
Earlier in July, we reported that new proposals by UK train companies could mean that nearly 1,000 ticket offices in a number of locations are closed, and expressed our solidarity with The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT).
Today on Wednesday 26 July the MU has backed an emergency motion raised at the MU Delegate Conference in support of the RMT.
Independent watchdog Transport Focus has launched a public consultation to gather passenger's views on the proposed closure of the majority of ticket offices in England (London TravelWatch is the watchdog for London-based commuters).
The consultation was due to close on Wednesday 26 July, but is now likely to be extended into September, and members are encouraged to use RMT’s helpful resource to respond to the consultation.
You can also sign the following petitions to oppose the plans to close the ticket offices:
Plans are based on profits not on passenger experience
Earlier this year, the Government rushed through changes to its guidance on how it deals with ticket office cuts and closures. Despite the massive implications for passengers, the Government says it will not consult publicly on changes to the guidance.
The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) believes these plans are not about improving the passenger experience, but rather cutting jobs and protecting the profits of the train companies.
Closing ticket offices will worsen the passenger experience and impact safety, security and accessibility. This may be particularly severe for disabled and elderly passengers and those requiring additional support.