Station barriers plan thrown out

National Express said the barriers would cut fare dodging

Controversial plans to install ticket barriers at York railway station have been rejected by councillors.

National Express East Coast wanted to install 17 automatic ticket gates and glazed barriers at three locations within the Grade II listed station.

The company said the scheme would cut fare dodging.

Despite being recommended for approval, the plans were thrown out by councillors who said the barriers would detract from the station's character.

'Frustrate people'

National Express said in a statement: "Gating will help to prevent fraudulent travel and protect revenue that can be invested back into enhanced facilities, while improving the environment of York station and security for customers and staff."

But objectors had argued the gates were unnecessary and unsightly and would be out of keeping with the building's historic feel.

The York Environment Forum, which campaigns for a sustainable way of life in the city, had also opposed the plans.

It said: "The gates will inconvenience, delay and frustrate the people of York, including denying them the tradition of seeing off and greeting family and friends on the platform.

"This will discourage people from travelling by train, just when the Sustainable City Strategy that we are all charged with implementing demands promotion of public transport."

National Express East Coast said it was "very disappointed that our application has not been approved".