When was the last time you bought train tickets from an actual physical human being? Yes, you can still do that. But not for much longer, it seems. The RMT union has warned that almost 1,000 rail ticket offices could close as early as next week thanks to government plans to cut costs and ‘modernise’ the railways.
Official data found that just one in eight tickets are bought at a manned kiosk, with most people going online or using a machine instead. The rail industry argues that travellers would be better served if staff were moved from offices to roles on rail platforms. Kiosks at busy hubs or major tourist spots are expected to remain open.
Unions and campaigners have warned that getting rid of ticket offices will make travelling more difficult for those who are more vulnerable or have disabilities.
Speaking to the Transport Select Committee back in January, rail minister Huw Merriman said: ‘We want the ticket office staff to come from behind the ticket office and interact with passengers, customers, on the platform, where they can be of more assistance.
‘I hope that actually helps those who have mobility issues who may struggle to get on to the train and also want more information on where the train is.’
Labour MP Ruth Cadbury argued: ‘The 12 percent of passengers who are currently using ticket offices are more likely to be occasional travellers and tourists, more likely to have disabilities, more likely to be cash buyers, more likely to have children in tow. That’s why they need that human contact.’
The Department for Transport hasn’t commented on the timing of the closures. The Rail Delivery Group, which represents train operators, said staff will be informed before any public announcement.
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