Hull Paragon Interchange.
The Paragon Interchange in Hull.

Paragon Interchange gate reopens after two-month closure

TransPennine Express has reopened the gate at the Anlaby Road entrance of Hull Paragon Station following a two-month trial to try to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Transport for the North last week agreed to support Hull City Council in an endeavour to keep the gate open for customers.

Council representatives also met with Hull West and Hessle MP Emma Hardy and Hull North MP Diana Johnson to discuss the issue with senior representatives of TransPennine Express.

Councillor Daren Hale, portfolio holder for economic investment and regeneration, said: “For many visitors, the interchange is their first experience of the city and they deserve to arrive into a modern and welcoming environment.

“The decision to reopen the gate is a vital step in the right direction in securing our shared vision with TransPennine Express of creating a high-quality customer experience and we will continue to have an open dialogue to ensure that we can tackle anti-social behaviour issues in a practical way.”

TransPennine Express customer experience director Kathryn O’Brien said: “In June, following a number of recommendations from the British Transport Police, we took the decision to close the Anlaby Road entrance of Hull Paragon Station. The closure of the entrance was part of a three-month trial, alongside a number of initiatives, to reduce anti-social behaviour at the station.

“The trial has reached the end of its second month and we believe that we now have sufficient data and evidence to demonstrate the positive impact that the initiatives have had in reducing the number of anti-social incidents at the station.

“The latest figures from the British Transport Police show a more than 35 per cent decrease in anti-social behaviour incidents during the two-month trial period.

“The trial has now ended and the Anlaby Road entrance will remain open throughout the day. We will now work closely with the British Transport Police, Hull City Council, local MPs and wider stakeholders to review the findings and implement a permanent plan to reduce anti-social behaviour.”

 

Some of the helmets to go on display as part of Exploring Islamic Art: helmets at Hull and East Riding Museum.
East Yorkshire Buses driver Paul Madeley. Picture: Neil Holmes Photography