Train companies consult on ticket office closures

Local train companies have started public consultations on the closure of ticket offices at both Hertford North and Hertford East stations, with staff being redeployed to public facing roles on platforms.

The plans are part of a nationwide move to close around 1000 ticket offices and pushed by the government to save costs.

Greater Anglia, who run services in to Hertford East claim that the plans would provide a more modern and flexible service for customers. The company also say that no station would become unstaffed as a consequence of the proposals and other station facilities, such as waiting rooms and toilets, will be unaffected.

"The proposals form part of plans to modernise the railway and bring it more in line with modern consumer expectations" says the company.

"They reflect significantly reduced usage of ticket offices over the past decade, as customers move to alternative, more convenient ways of buying tickets. Most tickets are now bought either online or through ticket machines.

"Under the plans, staff would undertake a new, more flexible 'customer host' role, providing advice about the best and cheapest fares, and supporting customers with other queries and accessibility needs, rather than being confined to the ticket office.

However, the plans are strongly opposed by unions, passenger groups and charities. Some Conservative MPs have also expreessed concerns over the plans.

Councillor David Jacobs, Leader of the Labour Group on East Herts District Council, said: "We are deeply concerned by these proposed closures. Ticket offices in our local stations provide a vital service to travellers visiting our towns and commuters heading to work; they are an important resource for residents in our increasingly commuter attracting communities and play a role in supporting local tourism. It is essential that the service they provide to our residents is protected."

Josh Dean, Hertford and Stortford Labour’s Parliamentary Spokesperson, said, "It is extremely concerning to see proposals threatening to close ticket offices at stations across our community. The loss of these ticket offices will make our stations and trains less accessible for elderly and disabled residents in our community and risk making our stations less safe for travellers. These local services must be protected and Labour is encouraging residents to share their views on these proposed closures by taking part in the consultations currently being run until 26th July."

Ticket Office closures could begin later this year although it is expected that the full programme of closures could take up to three years.

You find out more information and take part in the consultation by using the links below.

Greater Anglia ticket office closure consultation

Great Northern ticket office closure consultation