We’re all rightfully taught to be considerate of others whilst using public transport, particularly to those less able who find traveling more difficult. Unfortunately, GWR’s plans to cut thousands of ticket offices falls completely out of line with this sentiment.

The proposed plans to slash staff numbers at local stations comes after months of government failure to resolve rail strikes which have caused chaos for commuters.

Ticket offices provide a lifeline for commuters who are unable to use digital platforms. Whilst many of us are used to downloading various apps on our smartphones, buying tickets online, and whizzing through barriers with barcodes, for many with physical or visual impairments traveling is simply not that easy.

If you find it difficult to use digital platforms, staffed ticket offices can mean the difference between traveling or not. Without the ability to buy a ticket in person or being able to ask for guidance to a platform, the prospect of catching a train is daunting for some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

Max believes that it is only right that any proposal must ensure that older, digitally-excluded or disabled people are not excluded from the benefits of modern train travel. He and the Cheltenham Liberal Democrats call on GWR to retain a staffing presence at Cheltenham Spa to help ensure that everyone is able to access train services.