Following my enquiries on behalf of a number of constituents, I am delighted to confirm that Southeastern Trains have agreed to add a second ticket machine at our new Rochester Train Station. As a commuter myself, I understand that this has been a major concern to many others since the station’s opening in December, following long queues for tickets during peak times of the day.
While I cannot yet say when the new machine will be in place, I have obtained assurances from Southeastern that they are arranging for staff to be available at Rochester during peak periods with hand held ticket issuing machines in the event of queues building up at the existing facilities. I welcome this step forwards by Southeastern and look forward to the positive effect it will have to all our commutes.
I am aware that many constituents have been in contact about a variety of other issues concerning Rochester Station and Southeastern in general. As some will know, I have had several meetings with Southeastern in recent months, and will join other Kent colleagues in the weeks ahead at further sessions with them and the Department for Transport, in looking towards alleviating the inconveniences and poor service experienced by commuters.