Transport Secretary asks train operators to withdraw proposals to close Esher and Walton ticket offices

Today, the Transport Secretary has asked train operators to withdraw their proposals to close rail ticket offices because they failed to meet high passenger standards.

Over the summer, I was in close contact with South Western Railway whilst the consultation to hear your views on what the future of our rail stations should look like took place. I remained clear that any changes to the way our stations are operated must not come at the cost of station accessibility and consumer choice.

Now the consultation period has ended, it is good news that our local ticket offices will remain open to serve passengers’ interests.

Our Plan for Esher and Walton constituency includes improving local transport by:

• Extending zone 6 to all local stations
• Improving station accessibility by securing improvements like the new footbridge with lifts at Walton Station
• Securing contactless Pay As You Go ticketing

You can read more here.