Maria Caulfield, Member of Parliament for Lewes, has welcomed the announcement that the government have told the train operating companies to withdraw their planned closure of ticket offices.
During the summer, train companies consulted on reforming railway station ticket offices. Over 750,000 across the country took part in the consultation.
Hundreds of local residents contacted Maria with concerns about ticket offices closing, particularly those who had accessibility needs.
Maria Caulfield has been a strong voice for better public transport provision locally since first being elected as Lewes’ MP in 2015.
Maria Caulfield MP said:
“I know that residents across the constituency will be welcoming this announcement by the government, I made representation to the government and the rail companies on these proposals. Many residents contacted me concerned that ticket office closures would limit their accessbillity to the railway and so I am very pleased that ticket offices will be remaining open”
Minister of State for Transport Huw Merriman MP said:
“Following further meetings with accessibility groups and the passenger bodies, it has become clear the ticket office proposals do not meet the high thresholds set by Ministers. The Government has therefore communicated to the industry that ticket office reform should not proceed. I expect the Train Operating Companies to now withdraw their proposals and for no ticket offices to close.”