Proposals to close station ticket offices have been scrapped, following a public consultation over the summer, and opposition from Members of Parliament. This opposition included a public appeal from Great Yarmouth’s own parliamentary representative, Sir Brandon Lewis, who branded the initial idea as a “one-size-fits-all approach to changes across the railway network” and that the closures “were not a done deal”.

Commenting on the Government confirmation rail operating companies have been ordered that they should withdraw their proposals and no ticket offices would close Sir Brandon said, “This is great news for the town and for rail passengers across the country. I shared the concerns of constituents who were rightly worried about these proposals. And when I responded formally to the consultation, I highlighted these concerns, and the impact closure would have on an important gateway to the town.”

Transport Minister, Huw Merriman, in a letter to all MPs, confirmed that any closure plan, including at Great Yarmouth station, was effectively halted following government intervention. The minister signalled further government investment to improve the passenger experience at railway stations.

Sir Brandon said, “I am now looking forward to the result of a government audit of all stations and their assessment of what changes can be made to benefit passengers. There is a fantastic opportunity following this decision. We can create a travel hub at the station, to provide travel and visitor information, whilst continuing to provide support to travellers who need it most.”