Rail services were reduced when a third nationwide lockdown was introduced in January, and GWR says it is now implementing a phased return to its previous, full timetable.
The train operator adds that it has reviewed its database of ‘school trains’ - services that students and pupils use in high numbers - and is taking steps to ensure that where any of those have been removed, they are reinstated in time for tomorrow, as schools return. Extra staff will also be on hand at key stations to help provide advice and guidance to returning students.
The increase will see the train operator return to approximately 70% of its pre-COVID-19 lockdown timetable, with a further increase planned for Monday, March 29, to support any easing of Government travel guidance, prior to the usual Summer timetable change in May. Customers should still follow Government guidelines, only travelling for essential or for other legally permitted reasons. Find out more at gwr.com/safety
GWR has been providing rail services to some degree throughout the pandemic and has worked to ensure that these are as safe as possible. This includes increased cleaning regimes and the use of a virucidal spray; extra staff at key stations to offer help and guidance; and processes in place to help customers maintain a safe distance where possible, such as restricting the number of reservations available.
GWR Managing Director Mark Hopwood said: “Over the last year, we have worked closely with colleges and schools as well as our colleagues on mapping these services, and a lot of hard work has been done to make sure people feel that they can travel safely and with confidence.
“As restrictions ease over the course of the coming months and more passengers return to the railway, we will continue to restore services to our timetable.”