Islington’s transport chief fears ticket office closures at two Overground stations in the borough will hit vulnerable people hardest.

Cllr Claudia Webbe has written to transport watchdog TravelWatch and mayor Sadiq Khan about the plans from Arriva Rail London, which would affect Caledonian Road and Barnsbury and Canonbury.

She said: “Islington Council is committed to making our borough a fairer place for all, and this includes working hard to deliver a transport network that is sustainable, accessible and genuinely affordable for all local people.

“I am concerned the proposed closures of ticket offices in Islington will have a negative impact on disabled, elderly and other more vulnerable people.

“What we need are more staff on our stations to support passengers, as well as open ticket offices, and I have made that clear in my response to the consultation.”

TfL says the closures will not compromise safety and all stations will have staff at all times.

Rail director Jon Fox said: “The way customers pay for travel has changed rapidly as they embrace new technology, creating an opportunity to improve the way stations are managed and how staff serve customers.

“Arriva Rail London have been engaging with their staff and trade unions and are now consulting with rail industry bodies and London TravelWatch about ticket offices on stations where there are fewer than 12 ticket sales per hour.”