Train ticket offices: Many could be closed under new plans

The proposals, aimed at modernising customer service, would see nearly all ticket offices shut down, with only the busiest stations maintaining their facilities.

The move is being driven by the government's pressure on the rail industry to save money due to the revenue decline caused by the Covid pandemic.

In response to the announcement, trade unions, disability groups, and public transport organisations have expressed their concerns, fearing job losses and potential difficulties for vulnerable passengers.

Many groups have voiced criticism at the prospect of most ticket offices closing (Image: Alamy/PA)

Rail operating companies will start publishing details of the offices they intend to close from today (July 5), with just under 1,000 to be put forward, The Telegraph reports.

How many tickets are sold from train station offices?

According to the RDG, the share of train tickets purchased from station offices has dramatically decreased from 85% in 1995 to just 12% today.

As part of the consultations on the ticket office closures, train companies across England will engage with passengers to gather their input.

The RDG also highlighted alternative methods of payment, such as tapping contactless cards on barriers, using self-service machines, or purchasing tickets from staff on station concourses or trains when possible.

RDG chief executive Jacqueline Starr said: “The ways our customers buy tickets has changed and it’s time for the railway to change with them.

The RDG has stated most people don't purchase their train tickets from ticket offices (Image: PA)

“With just 12% of tickets being sold from ticket offices last year, and 99% of those transactions being available on TVMs (ticket vending machines) or online, our proposals would mean more staff on hand to give face-to-face help with a much wider range of support, from journey planning, to finding the right ticket and helping those with accessibility needs."

She added: "We also understand that our customers have differing needs, which is why the industry widely sought the views of accessibility and passenger groups when creating these proposals, and will continue to through the consultation."

Meanwhile, Transport Salaried Staffs Association interim general secretary Peter Pendle said: “We are clear the Government will face strong opposition from this union on the totally unnecessary mass closure of ticket offices.

“Ministers will soon realise that the public have no desire to see their rail network diminished in this way.”