Three ticket offices to close as part of ScotRail’s proposals

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. ScotRail’s ticket office consultation said proposed changes would impact 120 stations, some will see minor changes, the operator said, but three ticket offices are for the axe and others could see reduced opening hours. Phil Campbell, head of customer operations at the rail firm, said: “There has been no real review of our ticket office opening hours for 30 years, and it is important we keep up with the changing habits of customers who no longer rely on purchasing tickets in that way.” He added: “With more than a 50% drop in the use of ticket offices, heightened by the pandemic, we want to do everything we can to make sure everyone has a hassle-free journey.” Mr Campbell said there would be no job losses and the changes were “about adding value for our staff and customers”. “Whatever ScotRail might say, these cuts will hit passengers, threaten jobs and undermine station safety.” ScotRail said the proposed changes would achieve a number of aims, including less fare fraud and ticketless travel, generate and protect more revenue, reduce antisocial behaviour, and decrease carbon emissions by about 102 tonnes each year from less heating and lighting. “We will be considering comments from passengers on the changes to inform our response.” A Transport Scotland spokesman said: “The aim of this review is to make changes that will ensure the modernisation of Scotland’s stations and offer passengers a more efficient and cost effective service for the future.