Merseyrail is increasing the number and frequency of its services next week, but is urging that “only those who absolutely must travel by train, should do so”.
The changes come into force from Monday (May 18) and follow the Prime Minister’s announcement on Sunday in which he set out his “roadmap” for the gradual easing of coronavirus lockdown measures.
The announcement included guidance that people working in industries such as construction and manufacturing, and those who are “unable to work from home”, should now begin returning to work.
A Merseyrail spokesman said: “The guidance issued makes clear that only those who absolutely must travel by train, should do so.
“Merseyrail has increased services to a level that aims to meet an increase in demand, whilst taking into account the number of railway staff isolating due to the virus.
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“Passengers are reminded that these services are for essential journeys only.
“If you can use alternative forms of transport such as driving, cycling or walking please do so in line with the government guidance.
“We are looking at ways to reduce queuing times at booking offices and more information will be available soon.”
Ticket changes
A number of other changes have also been made.
The spokesman said: “Due to the change in services following the Prime Minister’s announcement, Merseyrail tickets will no longer be accepted on buses within the City Region after 7pm from Monday 18 May.
“Similarly, the decision has been made to remove the temporary lifting of the 9.30am concessionary travel restrictions from Thursday 14 May. To reduce demand during peak times and ensure the safety of our passengers as more industries return to work, concessionary passengers will no longer be able to travel before 9.30am, between Monday and Fridays.
“NHS workers can still travel for free at any time.”
Travel safety advice
In line with government advice released by the Department for Transport, Merseyrail is encouraging passengers to follow social distancing guidelines when using the network:
- Maintain social distancing wherever possible
- Wear face coverings if you can
- Use contactless payments where possible
- Avoid peak travel if you can
- Wash or sanitise hands as soon as possible before and after travel
- Follow advice from staff and be considerate to other passengers
Timetables
You can find all timetable information on services running until Sunday 17 May here.
From Monday 18 May trains will operate within normal operating hours, albeit at a reduced frequency. These are as follows:
Monday to Saturday
Southport – Hunts Cross line
Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 7pm then every 60 minutes until the end of service.
Additional services will operate during peak times Monday to Friday.
Ormskirk line
Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service.
Kirkby line
Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service.
West Kirby & New Brighton lines
Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 45 minutes until end of service.
Chester line
Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service.
Ellesmere Port line
Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then a reduced frequency until end of service.
Sunday
Sunday services will still operate between 8am and 8pm.
Passengers are also advised to check before they travel. This can be done by visiting the Merseyrail website, checking the Merseyrail Twitter account @merseyrail or by sending a message on WhatsApp on 0151 555 1111.
For full timetables click on the link here.
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