Consultation announced as ALL of Camden’s overground ticket offices at risk of closure
Gospel Oak station - Credit: Archant
All of Camden’s overground station ticket offices could be closed, after Arriva Rail London announced a consultation on their future.
The rail provider, who work with TfL to provide the overground services, say the closures will “represent an improvement on current arrangements in terms of quality of service.”
The stations set to be axed are; Camden Road, Kentish Town West, Gospel Oak, Hampstead Heath, Frognal and Fitzjohns and West Hampstead.
In total, 51 ticket offices face closure across the capital.
The proposals have been strongly criticised by rail union, the RMT. It said the closures will be “damaging and detrimental” and that there is still a “clear need for human interaction as a safeguard for passengers.”
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General secretary Mick Cash said: “I will be calling on London mayor Sadiq Khan to oppose this retrograde step in the strongest possible terms and to ensure that instead of shutting them down ticket offices are celebrated for the role that they play in the life of a station.”
John Saynor, chair of the West Hampstead Amenity and Transport (WHAT) group also opposes the plans.
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He said: “We’re very concerned about this. The West Hampstead ticket office is particularly busy and useful for people who live here and for visitors.”
They will join with rail unions on a national day of action on October 3.
Jon Fox, TfL’s director of rail and sponsored services said: “The way customers pay for travel has changed rapidly as they embrace new technology, creating an opportunity to improve the way stations are managed and how staff serve customers.
“Arriva Rail London have been engaging with their staff and trade unions and are now consulting with rail industry bodies and London TravelWatch about ticket offices on stations where there are fewer than 12 ticket sales per hour.
“These proposals will not compromise safety and all stations will remain staffed at all times.”
The consultation will close on October 11.
People can give their views by visiting: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CDVZWTM
