ScotRail announce ticket office opening hours reduction at Renfrewshire stations

ScotRail to Reduce Ticket Office Opening Hours at Renfrewshire Stations

ScotRail has announced plans to reduce ticket office opening hours at 54 stations in Scotland, including Paisley Gilmour Street, Johnstone, Barrhead, and Neilston, to align with changing customer preferences for online purchases. While the reduction in hours will not lead to station closures or impact train schedules, it reflects a shift towards online ticketing through the ScotRail website, app, and ticket machines. The decision follows a consultation by an independent passenger watchdog, Transport Focus, which gathered feedback from thousands of passengers across the country.

Phil Campbell, ScotRail’s customer operations director, stated that the updated proposals were a result of listening to customer feedback during the consultation process. The changes are expected to take effect in 2025, with advance notice provided to customers. The adjustments aim to better align service offerings with modern ticket-buying habits while enhancing safety and customer support at the stations.

At stations like Paisley Gilmour Street, Barrhead, Johnstone, and Neilston, ticket office opening hours will be revised to accommodate the evolving demand. While some stations will see reduced hours, others may experience increased operating times to better cater to passenger needs. ScotRail highlights that the changes aim to enhance customer service and staff visibility, with no anticipated job losses as a result of the proposals. Staff at stations with reduced hours will take on alternative customer support roles like ticket barrier duties and revenue protection.

The organisation cites a decade-long decline in ticket office sales, with a significant portion of customers now opting for online transactions. With benefits such as enhanced customer support, improved safety measures, and increased availability of assistance through various channels, ScotRail aims to provide a service that aligns with contemporary ticket-buying practices.

In summary, ScotRail’s decision to reduce ticket office opening hours at Renfrewshire stations reflects a broader shift towards online ticketing and modern customer preferences. The proposed changes seek to enhance service efficiency and adapt to evolving travel patterns while maintaining a focus on customer safety and support.