Broken ticket machine at Newhey's Metrolink stop is to be repaired

Councillor Butterworth at the broken ticket machine at Newhey

A broken ticket machine at Newhey's Metrolink stop is to be repaired this week following protests from local councillor Neil Butterworth.

Commuters had complained that Metrolink had told them there were no plans to repair the machine. There is no track crossing at Newhey, so passengers travelling to Rochdale faced a long detour, scores of steps and ramps, and a short walk along Huddersfield Road to reach the ticket machine on the opposite platform. And then traipse back again.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/111453/metrolink-slammed-for-reluctance-to-replace-vandalised-ticket-machine-at-newhey

One passenger described it as ridiculous: "Just how someone in a wheelchair or a parent pushing a buggy would cope is beyond me."

Now Councillor Butterworth has stepped in and took the complaint right to the top. He asked the Director General of Transport for Greater Manchester, Jon Lamonte, to step in and order the work.

Councillor Butterworth said: "I'm appalled common sense didn't kick in here. It's not on for passengers to have to go on a long hike just to get a ticket. If they can find the money to employ 25 extra ticket inspectors, then it's just as important to repair the ticket machines too."

Mr Lamonte has responded by apologising for the delay and said the ticketing company would repair the machine by 6 August, at the latest, but he was pressing them to do the work before then.

Councillor Butterworth added: "I'm pleased that Metrolink has backtracked and agreed to carry out the repairs, but honestly, you shouldn't have to have a row with the Director General to ensure basic maintenance is carried out promptly.

"I'd like to thank the many residents who brought the problem to my attention. I am always happy to help."