And at outstations they will close check in on schedule unless it's been signalled with prior notice that check in times have changed.

​​​They're not doing this to be awkward but at outstations the staff who do check in are contractors who will be there for 3 or 4 hours and then typically (a) go airside and deal with the gate, or (b) go off for a break or complete their shift, or (c) check in for another flight/airline. In many airports the check in counter will likely be reassigned to check in for another flight/airline. There's just not the luxury to keep in open longer than it needs to be.