On Tuesday 31st October, Transport Focus and London TravelWatch published their response to the industry’s ticket office proposals which had been consulted on earlier this year. Subsequently the decision has been made that train operators, including Southeastern, should withdraw their proposals.

This means that proposals to close ticket offices will not move forward.

I welcome this decision which generated considerable concern amongst Bromley and Chislehurst commuters.

My ambition remains a better, safer and more accessible railway at a lower cost to the taxpayer and ticket offices are an important part of providing that accessibility to all.

Southeastern have informed me that they will continue to support the growing numbers of customers who want to buy tickets using digital means and those who do not. At the same time, they still want to make our railway as accessible as possible and will continue to work with stakeholders to realise this.