Train operating companies want to move staff out of ticket offices and on to platforms, reports Noah Vickers, Local Democracy Reporter

More than 150 railway station ticket offices are proposed for closure in London – including six in Barnet.

Train companies across England are pressing ahead with plans to close hundreds of their ticket offices over the next three years, and most of those in the capital are no exception.

In London, Govia Thameslink Railway – operator of Great Northern and Thameslink services – is proposing the closure of ticket offices at 65 of its stations. This includes Cricklewood, Hendon, Mill Hill Broadway, New Barnet, New Southgate and Oakleigh Park.

Meanwhile, Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed its London Overground ticket offices will remain open.

Across the country, only 12% of rail tickets were sold at ticket offices last year, according to the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), with the rest bought online or from vending machines. The RDG said the changes will involve moving staff “from ticket offices and into stations, offering more face-to-face support for customers across the network as a whole”.

The organisation, which represents train companies across the UK, said the move would be made gradually. It said: “Where adopted, the proposals will see ticket office staff transitioning to multi-skilled ‘customer help’ roles – already in place in many parts of the network – where they would be better able to give advice about the best and cheapest fares, advise on journey planning and support customers with accessibility needs.

“The changes would mean a more visible and accessible staff presence across the network as a whole at stations during staffed hours, on ticket concourses and on platforms.

A spokesperson for the Mayor of London said: “It is essential that the full implications of rail ticket office closures are considered and that passenger groups and the workforce – through its trade unions – are consulted.

“Millions of commuters use London’s rail stations daily, and everything possible must be done to ensure all passengers feel safe and able to access the assistance and information they need.”

The train companies are currently consulting on the proposals.

To participate in the consultation and see full details of the proposals in London:
Visit londontravelwatch.org.uk/ticket-offices-have-your-say

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