Most Daily Focus readers taking part in the poll about proposed station ticket office closures have indicated they are against the idea.
Results show that 60 per cent of respondents disagree with train companies’ cost-cutting plans to close hundreds of ticket offices across the network.
A nationwide consultation is still underway, with people in the regions being urged to make their views known via Transport Focus – but the Daily Focus poll gives an early snapshot of public opinion.
In total, 260 readers replied to the Daily Focus poll, with 156 opposing closure plans and 104 agreeing.
Under the proposals some ticket kiosks would remain in large stations but elsewhere “customer help” staff would be positioned on concourses to sell tickets, offer travel advice and help people with accessibility.
Concern has already been voiced by rail users including those who rely on ticket offices for help with additional needs and in-person advice on how to make a purchase, digital or otherwise.
The plans, set to be rolled out over the next three years, are being opposed by unions and disability groups.
In a significant move last week, transport bosses in the West Midlands have refused to support the closure proposals.
Giving their official response, the West Midlands Rail Executive and Transport for West Midlands say there is insufficient information around how the needs of passengers with mobility issues and other impairments would be met.
A number of Daily Focus readers sent in their views in answer to our poll.
Maggie Shaw wrote: “When I was coming back to Crewe from London shortly before the pandemic, heavy rains had made some of the railway lines unsafe.
“The train I had tickets for and many others had been cancelled.
“Without a signposted ticket office and journey advisor I would not have found out the information needed to catch the last train to Stafford that night, from which I was then able to take a taxi to Crewe.
“Having someone available at the ticket office to explain the situation was invaluable, where we would have struggled to find a railway employee in the milling crowds.
“And as a woman over retirement age who often travels on her own, I appreciate the security of knowing there is a safe place in a station should I feel intimidated: the ticket office.”
David J wrote: “Speaking with a knowledgeable ticket office staff member who can assist with missed trains, re-routing, confusing timetables etc simply cannot be replaced by machines.
“When will corporations wake up and smell the coffee that good customer service comes in access to humans not kiosks and chatbots! We deserve better.”
Danny commented: “I remember being in Stoke station when a bare-footed woman ran to the ticket office for help.
“She’d been held captive following an Internet date and had, literally, just escaped.
“It’s an extreme example – but it showcases the importance of having a physical safe space for people to go for help and refuge.”
There’s still time to have your say. Leave comments at the bottom of this story – or email us at [email protected]
