29.05.09
Watchdog opposed to train centre closure
Passenger Focus has spoken out against South West Train’s plans to close the Waterloo Travel Centre and force passengers into long ticket office queues
South West Trains has announced it is consulting on proposals to shut the travel centre at one of the busiest London stations.
The national passenger watchdog has confirmed it is opposed to the idea of reducing passenger services at the station, believing all passengers will have to wait longer in queues regardless of whether they require tickets to travel immediately or need detailed travel advice.
Jocelyn Pearson, Passenger Focus manager, said: “We’re opposed to cutting Waterloo travel centre because passengers with complex travel enquires will be forced to queue at the ticket office, delaying others who wish to quickly purchase tickets.
“Travel centres have traditionally provided passengers with a greater level of information and advice and we do not believe that closing the Waterloo facility is in the passenger’s interest.”
Ms Pearson concluded: “If this goes ahead South West Trains should guarantee that passengers will not have to queue for more than five minutes, staff will be available on the ground to answer questions and facilities will be provided for elderly passengers and disabled passengers who may struggle to stand in queues.”
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