Agenda item

It was proposed by Councillor M Radulovic MBE and seconded by Councillor G Marshall that Standing Order 11.1 be suspended which requires seven working days to be given for a motion.  On being put to the meeting the motion was carried.

The following motion was proposed by Councillor G Marshall and seconded by Councillor S Paterson:

“Broxtowe Borough Council notes with dismay the news that the Department for Transport and the 13 train operating companies it manages have announced plans to close almost all staffed ticket offices in England, totalling nearly 1,000, following changes to the Government’s guidance relating to ticket office opening hours and operation. Statutory Consultations began on 5 July and will close on 26th July.

Broxtowe Borough Council believes that Beeston ticket office provides a vital service to residents in Broxtowe and supports passenger safety, security and accessibility. Having a place in the station for people requiring advice and assistance provides certainty and confidence for customers and also acts as a point of safety for passengers. At many stations, access to facilities such as toilets and waiting rooms is reliant on ticket office staff.

Not everyone is able to use ticket vending machines or online ticketing platforms. Many journeys require human assistance to ensure customers purchase the most appropriate and cheapest tickets, and do not incur penalties from mis-booked tickets. Ticket office staff have a wealth of knowledge which ensures that customers get appropriate advice for their whole journey.

Broxtowe Borough Council is concerned the closure of ticket offices will disproportionately affect disabled, deaf and older residents across Broxtowe – as well as those with poor literacy and IT skills or on lower incomes. Broxtowe Borough Council also notes the possible implications for current station staff and believes that the closure of ticket offices could lead to a de-staffing of rail stations.

Council therefore resolves to:

•      Instruct the Chief Executive to write to the Secretary of State for Transport, expressing Council’s opposition to the possible closure of staffed rail ticket offices – and in particular the office at Beeston

•      Instruct the Chief Executive to write to East Midlands Railways (EMR) expressing the Council’s opposition to any plans to close the staffed ticket office at Beeston.

•       Request that all councillors respond to the consultations before 26th July to confirm their support for ticket offices remaining open and for properly staffed rail stations.”

A recorded vote was proposed by Councillor G Marshall and seconded by at least five other Councillors.  The votes were as follows:

            RESOLVED that the motion be carried.