TRANSPORT for Wales is to reintroduce a Covid-19 timetable to support lockdown.
The ‘essential travel’ timetable is in response to the tighter restrictions in place across Wales and England.
It is due to be rolled out from Monday January 25.
Transport for Wales said: “The move balances maintaining the safety of those customers still travelling for essential purposes, the safety of railway colleagues and the need to provide as reliable a service as possible.”
To support the government’s public health priority, which aims to reduce the number of people travelling, Transport for Wales will be making short notice changes and cancellations to services which means anyone making essential journeys should check before they travel.
TfW are fully aligned with the UK and Welsh Government and would like to reinforce that public transport should only be used for essential travel, where there is no other alternative.
“Those who do still need to travel are urged to plan ahead and also to double check their journey details on the day of travel at www.tfwrail.wales.
Alexia Course, director of rail operations at Transport for Wales said:
“The safety of our customers and colleagues remains our top priority.
“It’s vital we provide the right level of service to meet the needs of those customers making essential journeys with us and that we keep them and our colleagues safe.
“The revised timetable will help reduce the risk for our customers and colleagues but still means we can provide a good service for key workers and those who need it for essential journeys.
“Like every area of society, we’ve been hit by Covid-19 and we know the devastating effects it can have on our colleagues and their families, so we’re doing all we can to play our part in preventing the spread of the virus.
“If your journey is essential, then please do check your journey details both in advance and on the day itself.
“And to all our customers who are staying at home right now, thank you for playing your part.”
As well as the reduction in services, Transport for Wales is continuing its enhanced cleaning regime at stations and on trains. Customers who are still travelling must continue to follow the Travel Safer guidance and wear a face covering unless exempt.
Minister for economy, transport and North Wales, Ken Skates said: “Many people not able to work from home have to use trains and buses to get to their places of employment.
“With the enhanced cleaning regime being undertaken by Transport for Wales, travelling on public transport is safe for all passengers – but we encourage people to think before they leave the house.
“Our message is clear – you should only leave your home if it is essential. This way you can help to maximise the capacity on our services, protect yourself and others, and together we can keep Wales safe.”
