Residents Against Station Closure -
Press Release 14th September 2010
East Midlands Trains are increasing the frequency of “human barriers” that block the pedestrian footbridge and are provoking residents who are increasingly frustrated by their antics. Residents Against Station Closure were appalled to learn that 45 people who were "cautioned" trying to cross the bridge at Sheffield Station on 2nd September. Press Officer Graham Wroe commented, "EMT's behaviour is completely outrageous. They have no authority to stop pedestrians crossing the bridge, as Sheffield Station is not a Compulsory Ticketing Area. It is EMT that should be cautioned for obstruction.
Keith Hayman, chairperson of RASC and a SCT trustee commented, "We will continue to peacefully assert our right to cross the footbridge. We do not condone abuse of EMT staff, neither do we feel they should abuse the public. Many reports we have received over the months indicate that the abuse has come from EMT staff. We question the role played by British Transport Police who supported EMT staff rather than the public and their rights. We will be writing to them to ensure that in future they take account of the rights of the pedestrians.
The bottom line is, EMT must not be allowed to continue to obstruct our footbridge!"
The RASC group are planning a further demonstrations. The Facebook page, "Keep Sheffield Station open to the public", now has 2340 members.
RASC are also lobbying Nick Clegg, the Deputy Prime Minister, to instruct the Transport Minister to change the franchise agreement with EMT so that the Sheffield footbridge is permanently open to pedestrians.
RASC are very pleased that on Thursday 9th September the Transport Sub committee of the Council decided to set in motion the establishment of a Public Right of Way. RASC fully supports this decision that should permanently protect this vital route through the city.
Visit : www.rasc-sheffield.com find out the latest news.