The public consultation on the closure of ticket offices in England, which was due to end last month, has now been extended until September 1st. The extension will allow for more people to have their voice heard over the issue.
As you know, I strongly oppose the suggested closures as it will lead to job losses, a diminished service, severe accessibility issues for many disabled people and ultimately greater safety concerns for all commuters.
Ticket offices serve as more than just places to buy tickets; they provide essential assistance and security to passengers. Which is why their potential closure is a serious concern for all.
What Do the Closures Mean for My Local Area
For Liverpool Wavertree residents, this will mean that three ticket offices (Edge Hill, Wavertree Technology Park and Broad Green) in the constituency will be subject to full closure with other nearby stations like Mossley Hill and West Allerton also closing.
Across Merseyside, this will result in 75 jobs being put at risk. I am monitoring the situation closely and have objected to the proposals.
The Changes in the Liverpool City Region
Northern Trains:
Overall, 131 ticket offices to close over time with only 18 remaining.
Reduced Operation:
Liverpool Lime Street – Reduction of Ticket Office hours and loss of 10 jobs
St Helens Central – Reduction of Ticket Offices Hours and loss of 4 jobs
Full Ticket Office Closure:
Edge Hill, Wavertree Technology Park, Broad Green, Roby, Huyton, Prescot, Eccleston Park, Thatto Heath, Garswood, Whiston, Rainhill, Lea Green, St Helens Junction, Earlestown, Newton-le- Willows, Mossley Hill, West Allerton, Halewood & Hough Green, resulting in the proposed loss of 61 jobs.
*Stations marked in bold and italics currently fall within the Liverpool Wavertree constituency.
How to Get Involved in Opposing the Closures
I support the RMT union’s campaign to oppose these closures.
You can too by signing the following petition (click the following link):- Save Ticket Offices – rmt
Find out more about the consultation process which now closes on the 1st of September:- Train station ticket office consultation – Transport Focus
Fill in the consultation form:- Ticket office closures – Transport Focus