THE MAYOR of Malvern has issued a rallying call regarding the proposed closures of the town’s railway ticket offices.
Plans have been announced to close the offices at Great Malvern and Malvern Link stations.
Coun Clive Hooper has received many correspondences from residents regarding the closures.
And he has urged people to have their say to Transport Focus before the end of its consultation on July 26.
In a letter to the Observer he said people had expressed fears about the two stations not being staffed.
Under the proposals made by the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), an industry body representing private railway operators, up to 1,000 offices would be closed.
The RDG says that this would involve bringing staff out from behind ticket screens and result in better support for passengers with ‘a more visible and accessible staff presenceoverall in stations during staffed hours, on ticket concourses and on platforms.
They have also pledged that there would be more staff outside at stations, and that those with accessibility needs would always be supported.
But Coun Hooper said: “In reality, these proposals are appalling, particularly for elderly, disabled and vulnerable passengers and those who rely on face-to-face interactions for guidance, or may not have access to online ticketing services.
“Ticket offices play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, security and wellbeing of passengers.
“Trained staff on-site can provide reassurance and assistance in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.”
Coun Hooper added Network Rail had just spent £4million on refurbishing the Grade 2 listed Great Malvern station and another significant sum very recently upgrading Malvern Link station.
“The published proposals tell us we will have two unstaffed open stations, with frequently unusable ticket machines and limited travel information screens.
“With no daily maintenance these showpiece stations will become neglected and dirty.
“We are a tourist town and attempt to attract visitors by rail – this is going to have the opposite effect.”
Views are being sought on the plans and can be submitted in writing (no stamp needed) to: RTEH-XAGE-BYKZ, Transport Focus, PO Box 5594, Southend on Sea, SS1 9PZ.
