The Urban Transport Group, the UK’s network of city region transport authorities, has today responded to the announcement that train companies will consult passengers on plans to ‘modernise customer service across the rail network’.

The Rail Delivery Group announced that it plans to move staff from ticket offices and into stations, which could see the closure of a number of ticket offices.

Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, said:

“While we are not opposed in principle to changes to the way that customer service is provided at stations, we would ask for Train Operating Companies to fully consult with our member transport authorities, and provide assurances that the plans will not lead to de-staffing of stations that undermine access to the railway for people with disabilities and increase actual and perceived fears for personal safety on and around the railway.”