Former rail manager criticises ECML barriers plan

John Nelson, former General Manager of BR's Eastern Region, has criticised plans for ticket barriers on stations catering mainly for long-distance services. In an article in April's "Transit" magazine, he explained the reason that barriers were originally removed: the fixed costs of running them were eliminated, improving the travelling environment and increasing income. He added, "It boosted revenues whilst vastly improving the ambience of stations." He was in charge of the East Coast Main Line when the changes were made.

He also challenged the accuracy of claims made by National Express that ticket gates are "becoming common worldwide". In fact they are not generally used at main line stations elsewhere in Europe. He commented, "In Germany, ease of access to the trains and platforms is seen as a huge customer benefit."

He accepted that there were advantages to ticket gates at stations handling predominantly suburban or commuter traffic, but said that benefits on the ECML were "doubtful." The barriers are offputting to some passengers, can be difficult to negotiate for those unfamiliar with them and can extend journey times making rail less competitive.

These concerns echo those of CABYS members, who are worried that the barriers could actually reduce revenues and harm the rail industry by deterring some passengers, as well as closing off the station as a public space.