EAST Renfrewshire residents are being urged to have their say on controversial plans to cut ticket office opening hours at train stations.

Earlier this month, the Barrhead News told how changes outlined in ScotRail’s ticket office consultation would affect a number of stations in the area.

Opening hours at the Barrhead office are set to be reduced by more than three hours on Mondays to Fridays.

On these same days, opening hours at Neilston station’s office would be cut by more than two hours and 45 minutes.

Saturday opening hours would also be reduced at these two stations, while Sunday times would remain unchanged.

For ticket offices at Giffnock, Clarkston, Whitecraigs and Williamwood stations, smaller cuts to opening hours are planned.

West Scotland MSP Katy Clark, whose remit includes East Renfrewshire, is encouraging local people to take part in ScotRail’s consultation before the February 2 deadline.

The Labour politician said: “Ticket vending machines won’t fill the void.

“They can’t effectively assist passengers, answer enquiries, ensure passengers’ safety or tackle anti-social behaviour.

“I would urge all residents to send a clear message with this consultation – we need to staff our stations and stop the cuts.”

ScotRail insist the plans will mean less fare fraud and ticketless travel, reduce anti-social behaviour and cut carbon emissions.

Phil Campbell, head of customer operations, said: “There has been no real review of our ticket office opening hours for 30 years and it is important we keep up with the changing habits of customers who no longer rely on purchasing tickets in that way.”

Anyone who would like to have their say on the plans should go online at scotrail.co.uk/scotrail-ticket-office-consultation.