I am shocked by Great Northern's proposal to close Watton-at-Stone's ticket office.

Our ticket office provides a lifeline for the most vulnerable in the community. This decision could have far-reaching consequences for both commuters and the community at large.

Why this matters

The railway station ticket office is more than just a place to buy tickets. It's a central point of contact, assistance, and information. From providing travel advice to addressing inquiries, the ticket office serves as a reliable resource for passengers, ensuring their journeys are smooth and hassle-free.

Closing the ticket office could disproportionately affect passengers with special needs, limited digital literacy, or language barriers. Not everyone can seamlessly navigate automated systems or online platforms - and that's if they are working! The ticket office provides personalised assistance, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can access the rail services they need.

Take action

I believe that the proposal to close the ticket office deserves a second thought. Our voice matters, and we can make a difference by expressing our concerns to the decision-makers. Here's how you can help:

1. Sign the Petition: Join us in showing your support by signing my petition below to keep our ticket office open. Strength lies in numbers, and your signature can help demonstrate the widespread demand for this essential service.

2. Spread the Word: Share this information with your friends, family, and fellow commuters. The more people who know about the potential closure, the stronger our collective voice becomes.

3. Respond to the official consultation: the email address to respond to the consultation is  TicketOffice.GTR@transportfocus.org.uk. Or if you prefer to respond by post, the address is Freepost RTEH-XAGE-BYKZ, London TravelWatch, PO Box 5594, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 9PZ.