Thank you for your interest in this story

To continue reading this article, subscribe to the Stray Ferret for as little as £1 a week

    Already a subscriber? Log in here.

    24

    Apr 2023

    Last Updated: 22/04/2023
    Community
    Community

    Harrogate train station set to have unmanned exit?

    by John Plummer

    | 24 Apr, 2023
    Comment

    0

    microsoftteams-image-6-12

    Harrogate train station could be set to have unmanned barriers on the exit leading to East Parade.

    The barriers are currently monitored by staff, who help with ticket queries.

    But a source contacted the Stray Ferret to say rail operator Northern planned to remove staff from the East Parade exit.

    The source was concerned this posed safety risks if people needed to leave the station quickly and would also particularly inconvenience disabled people who require help at the barriers.

    Harrogate train station barriers

    The Stray Ferret asked Northern if and when it planned to implement the new system and what response it had to the concerns.

    Tony Baxter, regional director for Northern, said in a statement:

    “We’re always looking at ways to improve the customer experience and passenger flow across our station estate, including Harrogate.
    "Any improvement plans are always subject to rigorous safety and accessibility checks.”


    Northern did not respond to a further email seeking clarification on when any changes would be implemented.

    We also asked rail union the RMT if it had any concerns but it did not issue a response.




    Read more: