South West Trains confirm no public consultation on the future. Join Steve's campaign inside!
Prospective Conservative MP for Winchester, Steve Brine, says any plans to close the travel information centre at Winchester railway station would represent a huge loss to the city.
South West Trains have confirmed, after enquiries from The Hampshire Chronicle, that they are in consultation as to whether the office on Station Hill will close under plans to overhaul the site.
Steve challenged the train operator to clarify what form their consultation will take and commented; “South West Trains need to be clear about their intentions and talk to local people if this is to be a meaningful process. The travel centre is a much valued service used by locals and visitors alike. Winchester needs a dedicated travel and tourist office at the point many people enter our city – and that is clearly the railway station. There is no way the main ticket office inside the station, even if it is updated and more automated ticket machines are added, can cope with detailed enquiries - especially when there is a queue forming and people have trains to catch.
“This comes hot on the heels of plans to downgrade Winchester’s main Post Office by moving it into WH Smith, people are entitled to ask whatever next!
“I appreciate a final decision has yet to be taken but South West Trains need to realise upfront that we cannot accept any reduction in service at such a major railway station.”
What do you think? Add your voice to the campaign and your thoughts on the travel centre via [email protected]
