RESIDENTS have slammed proposals to close Bromsgrove Train Station’s ticket office calling it an ‘awful’ move.

Last week, industry body the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) unveiled plans which could lead to nearly all ticket offices being shut across the country, with facilities only remaining open at the busiest stations.

West Midlands Railway has said the proposals represent the biggest change to customer retailing since the 1990s, when 82 per cent of all tickets were sold at ticket offices, compared to just 12 per cent today.

Under the plans, all ticket offices in their current form would close over the next three years but six hub stations across the WMR network including Worcester Foregate Street and Birmingham Snow Hill will be retained.

Mobile teams would move between stations and be deployed to offer extra help where needed.

Bromsgrove residents have taken to social media to express their anger over proposals.

Jenni Craddock asked: “What about older people or disabled people who may struggle with technology?”

Christina Dawson wrote on Facebook: “We need the ticket office to stay open.

“It is all about profit not service for people.

“So, it will be another empty building that deteriorates.”

Whilst Karen Baughan posted: “This is not encouraging people to use public transport.

Zoe Taylor wrote: “I use the station 6 days out of 10 and it’s always open and I see many people using the ticket office. I get a coffee most mornings and there’s always someone at the desk.

“Would be a shame to lose the service as I see it’s a great help to lots of people.”

Nicola Moran posted: “It's awful for the disabled and elderly. Those who may not be able to get online/phone tickets! It's also a place people go for advice on travel. Rail needs more support for customers not less.”

A consultation is running until Wednesday, July 26 for people to have their say about proposals on Transport Focus’ website which can be accessed via: https://www.transportfocus.org.uk/train-station-ticket-office-consultation/.