Transport Committee Chair Iain Stewart comments on Government change of plan over rail ticket office closures

Following the Government’s announcement today, Iain Stewart MP, Chair of the Transport Committee, said:

“The Government’s announcement today that rail ticket office closures won’t be going ahead is very welcome. I’m pleased that both Transport Focus and London Travel Watch have identified similar concerns to the Committee regarding accessibility and a lack of clarity about alternative proposals.  

“Following an evidence session on the proposed closures, we wrote to the Rail Minister outlining our concerns that the proposals went too far too fast. I’m glad that the Government has now recognised the many accessibility issues raised by the plans. 

“In our inquiry into accessible transport, the Committee has heard that disabled people, people with access needs and older people already feel sidelined when using public transport. I’m sure many will be relieved at this decision, but we know there is a long way to go and many lessons to be learnt from this.” 

The Committee is currently holding an inquiry into legal obligations for accessible transport, how effectively they are enforced and where there are gaps in law or regulation.