I am delighted that the Government has rejected train operators’ proposals to shut rail ticket offices.
I know that many constituents were concerned about GTR’s proposals which were consulted on during the summer and which would have affected Balcombe, Billingshurst, Christ’s Hospital and Horsham stations. I raised these concerns with GTR directly and asked for guarantees around levels of assistance, staffing and service as I am acutely aware that some passengers have more difficulty buying tickets online or from a machine.
I am pleased that the Government listened to these concerns and, following further meetings with accessibility groups and passenger bodies, has rejected train operators’ proposals.