by Stephen Slominski
Train operators are extending the consultation period for proposed changes to ticket sales at railway stations.
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In response to overwhelming feedback and to give passengers more time to have their say, train operators are extending the consultation period for proposed changes to ticket sales at stations.
Passengers will now have until September 1 to participate in the consultation process, providing their input on the evolving railway retailing methods.
Jacqueline Starr, chief executive of the Rail Delivery Group, emphasised the significance of including the public in shaping the future of rail ticketing. She stated:
“Train companies have listened to feedback, and are extending the time available to respond to the consultation on changes to how tickets are sold at stations to the first of September. Operators are keen to give more people a chance to give their views on the proposals, so they can bring the railway up to date with dramatic shifts in customer buying habits, while supporting all its customers as the railway evolves and adapts”
Ticket officers at Southampton Airport Parkway, Southampton Central and St Denys are among many others that risk being shut down, reports ITV News.
The rail company say they are simply seeking to modernise ticketing systems in response to changing passenger preferences, particularly with the rise of smartphone usage and online purchases. However both the RMT and ASLEF say the move is all about “savage” cost cutting in order to boost shareholder profits while disadvantaged groups will find it harder to purchase tickets if they have to rely on apps while the safety of the travelling public will be put at risk in unmanned stations.
The RMT are running an online petition that has attracted nearly 60,000 signatures,.
Passengers who wish to participate in the consultation can do so until September 1 by providing their comments and opinions via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or through Freepost at RTEH-XAGE-BYKZ, Transport Focus, PO Box 5594, Southend on Sea, SS1 9PZ.