EAST Midlands Trains has moved closer to installing controversial ticket barriers at Sheffield station.
The company has applied for listed building consent to install the barriers – despite months of campaigning from residents who say the plans will block their route from Norfolk Park and Park Hill to the city centre.
The Residents Against Station Closure protest group has urged people who use the bridge to write to Sheffield Council to object.
Group chairman Keith Hayman said: "We have very little time to respond. We must show the planning office the strength of feeling about this planning application."
East Midlands Trains has submitted a Listed Building Consent Application for automatic ticket gates, CCTV cameras and improved lighting.
Sheffield Council leader Paul Scriven opposed the plans, which will be discussed by a council planning board after the consultation period ends on Friday October 2.
Coun Scriven said: "Although this decision is not about the wider issue and can only consider the potential impact on a listed building, I believe that there are grounds for the application to be refused.
"Plans to install ticket barriers at York were halted as they couldn't get listed building consent due to the impact on the aesthetics of the building. I believe that the same should apply in Sheffield."
East Midlands Trains believes the barriers are necessary to cut fare dodging and improve security.
The company has offered residents free passes to allow them through the barriers but the idea has been rejected by protesters, who want unrestricted access.
People can comment on the application until October 2 by logging onto
www.sheffield.gov.uk or going to Howden House, Union Street, 8.30am-5.30pm Mondays to Fridays.
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