Island Line’s ticket office in Ryde on the Isle of Wight was featured in an article in the Guardian newspaper today.
Journalist Sam Wollaston spent the day at Ryde Esplanade train station speaking to a number of rail passengers who rely on being able to speak to, and receive assistance from, a member of staff in the ticket office.
Large opposition to the plans
The feature highlights the growing number of people opposing Government plans to force rail firms to close ticket offices around the UK. As previously reported by News OnTheWight, the government says the plans are a necessary part of modernisation.
However, although a large number of people can access vending machines or use Apps to purchase their tickets, there are others who require the help of a human being. This isn’t just because some might have learning difficulties or sight loss.
Island of Wight stories
Several rail customers with whom Sam spoke with during his visit explained that being able to receive help from a human in the ticket office leads to them saving money or time on Mainland journeys.
Lilley: Damaging for the local economy
Well-known Islanders with whom Sam spoke with for the article include Lisa Hollyhead, the CEO of Sight for Wight, Jan Brookes from Isle Access and former Mayor of Ryde and Isle of Wight councillor for Ryde Appley and Elmfield, Councillor Michael Lilley.
Councillor Lilley explained to Sam that a closed ticket office at the gateway to the Island would be damaging for the local economy and highlighted the older demographic of the Island, with some perhaps being less digitally-savvy than others. He added that it flied in the face of the £36m spent by the Government on making making the Isle of Wight more accessible.
Other Islanders
Sam also spoke with residents Yvonne Williams, Rachael Sothcott, Christine Miller and Adelaide Edwards for the feature, who all shared their views on why keeping tickets offices open is important.
See the article on The Guardian Website to read in full.
