Dr Neil Hudson, MP for England’s largest rural constituency, has spoken out against potential train station ticket office closures that will disproportionately impact rural communities, disabled people and the elderly.
The Rail Delivery Group - the rail industry membership body – has proposed to shut nearly all of England’s ticket offices with only the largest being saved.
While the group has argued that this will cut costs and make it easier for staff to help customers throughout stations, Dr Hudson has asserted how unfairly this will affect rural communities as well as the elderly, the disabled and those without a smartphone.
Dr Neil Hudson, MP for Penrith and The Border, said:
“We cannot let rail companies take rural communities for a ride.
“I believe in making it as easy as possible for passengers across the country to travel on our railways but for rural communities like ours, this decision would negatively impact those with poor mobile signal and broadband speeds trying to purchase tickets.
“Moreover, for those who need additional support, such as those with disabilities and elderly people, a personal service is crucial to making sure travel runs smoothly.
“As we transition to net-zero rail travel will be pivotal to the low-carbon economy so now more than ever we cannot turn people away from our brilliant rail network.”
Better Connectivity is one of Dr Hudson’s core campaigns and from campaigning for improved rail links and broadband rollout to standing up for local bus services and breaking down financial barriers to those travelling to college or apprenticeships; he has consistently stood up for his constituents. To follow his work in this area, visit: www.neilhudson.org.uk/campaigns/better-connectivity
On this issue, Dr Hudson has already written to the Department for Transport, made representations to Transport Ministers, tabled parliamentary questions and encouraged constituents to engage with the official consultation on the matter, which can be found here: www.transportfocus.org.uk/train-station-ticket-office-consultation. Please note, all feedback must be received by Wednesday 26 July 2023.
