Harrogate MP Andrew Jones has contacted Northern to confirm that Harrogate train station is not set to be closed.
Harrogate MP backs decision to retain Harrogate station ticket office Harrogate MP Andrew Jones has contacted train operator Northern to confirm that Harrogate station is not among those set to close. Rail companies are looking to close ticket offices across the UK following a sustained fall in the numbers of people using them. The Rail Delivery Group has proposed closures to around 1,000 ticket offices. And Northern plans to close 131 offices - but Harrogate is not one of them. Andrew Jones MP said:
“Rail companies are looking at this as the numbers of people purchasing tickets in person has plummeted with the rise of online booking and user-friendly electronic terminals at stations. All the plans are subject to consultation. “I have though confirmed with Northern this morning that Harrogate station will be retaining its ticket office as well as the electronic terminals which were installed a few years ago. "I am sure this will be welcome news to passengers who value the ability to buy tickets face-to-face.”[caption id="attachment_33350" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Andrew Jones.[/caption] Stations affected by the new arrangements will see new ‘journey makers’ available to help people with purchasing tickets using the in-station terminals or helping them buy tickets on their mobile phones. Consultation on the changes will run from 5th to 28th July 2023. Consultation documents are available online at https://www.northernrailway.co.uk/consultation-2023. Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.