Metrobus set to temporarily reduce services

Bus firm Metrobus has announced it will revise its timetable from tomorrow, January 16, reducing some services.
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The new timetable will have an emphasis on maintaining bus services for key workers and other people making essential journeys, while reducing other services, the firm said. Some routes will not change.

The timetable changes reflect falling passenger demand due to the Coronavirus and government advice not to travel unless essential.

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Metrobus managing director Martin Harris said: “Overall, services will continue to be operated at very good levels, being temporarily reduced by around 10 per cent; from 90 per cent to 80 per cent of pre-Covid levels, running at a similar level to last year.

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“This level of service supports those who need to travel while maintaining social distancing. We have kept changes to a minimum, continuing to provide a good, regular service on most routes and protecting journeys for key workers. “Fewer journeys will operate on some routes but we are making sure we run buses at the times when they are most needed.”

Martin reminded passengers that if they can wear a face covering, they must.

He added: “It is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself, your fellow passengers and your driver. Please put on a face covering over your mouth and nose when you board and keep it on for your entire journey.

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“We understand that some passengers are exempt from wearing a face covering. If that applies to you, it would really help our drivers if you showed your exemption card or lanyard when you board.

“At the same time, I’m asking everyone to be kind and respectful towards those passengers who cannot wear a face covering. We won’t tolerate hate crime on our buses and that includes verbal, as well, as physical abuse.”

Passengers are also encouraged to maintain social distancing and to pay by contactless or mobile phone, rather than with cash.

Martin added: “Thank you to the many passengers who have sent supportive messages to our drivers and other colleagues during Covid. I know these messages have brightened up their day and reinforced how vital their work is. One lady thanked a driver for taking her to hospital to get vaccinated. Moments like that keep our drivers going.”

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Meanwhile, the bus company is maintaining an enhanced cleaning schedule, including bus deep cleans and cleaners boarding buses at busy interchanges, paying particular attention to frequent touchpoints, like handrails and stop buttons. For detailed bus timetables see https://www.metrobus.co.uk/service-change/ and for face covering guidance, including how apply for a free exemption card, see https://www.metrobus.co.uk/face-covering-guidance/