The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
South Holland and the Deepings MP Sir John Hayes says he will oppose the planned closure of the ticket office at Spalding station.
Sir John met with the Managing Director of East Midland Railway in Parliament.
Sir John said: “I am concerned the closure of the ticket office will harm many users of the railway, in particular disproportionately disadvantaging the elderly and the disabled, who may rely on personal service to help them out.
“One can easily foresee a situation where the ticket machine is broken and a passenger is stuck, as they cannot get the help they need in person.
“There is also the question of access for disabled people, as a member of staff needs to be on hand for using the lift which I campaigned to have installed.
“I made clear to East Midlands Railway that the lift may not be operational at all if no-one is on site. It is clear that they must rethink their plans.
“At the moment, a public consultation is open, and I encourage all users of the station to submit their thoughts online. Spalding warrants a fully manned station, not just a ticket machine.”
East Midlands Railway say there will not be a reduction in staff at the station.
The company website says Spalding station currently has a manned ticket office from 6.30am to 12.30pm Monday to Saturday, though readers told us its actually opens for longer.
The website adds that the lifts are only available when a member of staff is on site, but readers confirmed they are now accessible 24/7.
A national petition against the ticket office closures has been launched and attracted over 45,000 signatures.
Members of the Spalding Town Forum last night also agreed to object to the proposal.
For details on how to take part in the consultation, se the website www.transportfocus.org.uk
