Councillors ask for rethink on Nexus’ plan to close travel shops

Lib Dem councillors on Wearside say that Nexus' decision to close travel shops and force people to sort passes, permits and travelcards online will make life harder for vulnerable people.

The decision by Tyne and Wear transport body Nexus to close all six of their travel shops across the area - including the office at Park Lane Interchange in Sunderland - should be reversed according to city councillors on Wearside.

The travel shops have been closed since lockdown was imposed earlier this year, but Nexus have come forward with a plan to close them all permanently to "speed up" moving their operations online.

Commenting, leader of the Lib Dem group on Sunderland City Council Niall Hodson said:

"This is a really disappointing plan from Nexus to close all six travel shops across Tyne and Wear. I am urging them to think again and keep in-person and over-the-counter services available in Sunderland city centre.

"Lots of older and vulnerable people can't or don't want to use online services. They are sick of being told that they don't matter and that they have to access services online even if they don't want to or don't trust giving out their personal details over the internet.

"Concessionary travelcards, tickets, permits and passes are a lifeline for local people to maintain their independence. Nexus should be doing everything they can to make sure everyone can buy and renew passes in a way that suits them - not making life more difficult for vulnerable and elderly people who may need a helping hand the most.

"Nexus should reverse this decision and make sure our city has somewhere that people can go to, in person, to get help with passes and permits."