A transport watchdog has said it would object to the closure of ticket offices in Watford where it can be proved the number of transactions exceed 12 an hour.

London TravelWatch made the recommendation in a letter to Three Rivers Labour Councillors Stephen Cox, Joan King and Stephen King after the three wrote to the regulator following a public consultation held between Arriva Rail London, London TravelWatch and rail industry bodies which concluded on October 11.

The councillors have contested the proposed closure of up to 51 ticket offices across north London which include Watford High Street and Carpenders Park.

But, in the letter, both stations are among 24 ticket offices London TravelWatch would see saved if they surpass 12 ticket sales per hour, as per the secretary of state for transport’s guidance.

London TravelWatch said it was moved to make the recommendation based on the “evidence presented by Arriva Rail London and by the analysis of the public consultation exercise”.

South Oxhey Labour Councillor Stephen Cox said: “This is a case of so far so good. Labour’s response to the consultation has been acted upon.

“Hopefully the fact that London TravelWatch have objected to the closure of Carpenders Park and Watford High Street station’s ticket offices, stating they’re among 24 they wish to see remain open out of 51 identified for the axe, will carry considerable weight.

“The local Labour team still want Arriva Rail London to withdraw its outrageous proposal to close the ticket office. If they don’t, then we call upon the secretary of state step in and keep it open.”