The Government has now made clear that, following a period of public consultation on railway ticket office closures, the proposals do not "meet the high threshold of serving passengers".
As such the ticket office closures at stations across the country, including Narborough, will not be going ahead.
Alberto has been campaigning against ticket office closures since the proposals were announced. In July 2023, Mr Costa met with representatives from East Midlands Railway and the Friends of Narborough Station (FONS) to discuss local concerns about the future of the ticket office at Narborough Railway Station.
Alberto has raised his concerns about ticket office closure at Narborough Station with Huw Merriman, Minister of State for transport, and in particular his concerns for those who need assistance purchasing tickets or are not confident purchasing them online.
In August 2023 Alberto met with local resident Sarah Leadbetter in Parliament to support the National Federation of the Blind of the UK's campaign to keep the ticket office open at Narborough and other stations across the country to ensure all customers' accessibility needs continue to be met by stations.
Alberto Costa said:
"I'm grateful to everyone who has campaigned with me on this issue and to the thousands of people who have expressed their views in the survey. Narborough is the only station in the South Leicestershire constituency and it is therefore crucial that it is properly serviced."
He added "After a genuine public consultation, I'm delighted that the Government and the rail industry have reached the decision to keep ticket offices open. For people with disabilities and elderly residents this is welcome news that ensures they can travel independently and with confidence.
Minister of State for Transport Huw Merriman said "Since the consultations launched in the summer, I have maintained that no currently staffed station should be unstaffed as a result of the changes. I was clear this must be an open and genuine consultation process, and that the changes must deliver the highest quality of service for all users of the railway.”
"Following further meetings with accessibility groups and the passenger bodies, it has become clear the ticket office proposals do not meet the high thresholds set by Ministers. The Government has therefore communicated to the industry that ticket office reform should not proceed. I expect the Train Operating Companies to now withdraw their proposals and for no ticket offices to close."
Jacqueline Starr, Chief Executive of the Rail Delivery Group said: While these plans won’t now be taken forward, we will continue to look at other ways to improve passenger experience while delivering value for the taxpayer. Our priority remains to secure a vibrant long-term future for the industry and all those who work in it.”
