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Train ticket office closure consultation deadline extended
26/07/2023
Comments can now be submitted until September 1
The consultation into the closure of train station ticket offices has been extended.
The original deadline for the public to submit their views was today, but this morning train operators – including Chiltern Railways which runs Banbury station – have extended the deadline.
Passengers will now have until September 1 to submit their views.
The Rail Delivery Group represents train operators. They say that allowing extra time demonstrates they are listening to feedback.
The proposal for Banbury station would see a move to all tickets being purchased online or via mobile apps before arriving at the station. For those unable to do that staff would be available at the station to assist with a ticket purchase from the self-service ticket vending machines.
Existing ticket office staff would move to what the train operator describes as “multi-skilled customer help” roles. They would be based in the public areas of the station where they would be able to provide advice on fares and offer support for customers with accessibility needs.
Chiltern says the proposals would help bring station ticket sales up to date.
Jacqueline Starr, chief executive of the Rail Delivery Group, said: “Operators are keen to give more people a chance to give their views on the proposals, so they can bring the railway up to date with dramatic shifts in customer buying habits, while supporting all its customers as the railway evolves and adapts.
“While local plans vary, the aim of the proposals is to bring staff out from behind ticket office windows to offer more help for customers buying tickets and navigating stations. At the same time ticket vending machines are being upgraded to offer a wider range of fares, and we have committed that no customer will have to go out of their way to buy a ticket.
“We encourage those who want to view the plans or take part to go to their local train company website or visit Transport Focus or London Travel Watch during the consultation period.”
Banbury Town Council has already submitted its objection to the proposal. Elsewhere, at a full meeting of Cherwell District Council last week Conservative Leader Barry Wood agreed to write voicing the Council’s concerns following a question by Labour Councillor Sean Woodcock.
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam