West Midlands trains and buses to increase but public urged to avoid public transport
Extra train and bus services will be put on in the West Midlands in an effort to ensure passengers can safely use public transport as more people return to work.
People are still being urged to avoid public transport but officials have acknowledged usage is expected to increase following the slight ease in the coronavirus lockdown.
Transport bosses said they are ready to react to any overcrowding through 1,700 CCTV cameras which will be monitoring train and tram stations. Police and transport operators will be alerted to any crowding problems or flouting of social distancing rules.
Information on crowding and other issues will be shared online and on social media to try and ensure people stay away.
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West Midlands Mayor Andy Street, who heads up Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), said passenger safety remains the priority as people begin to return to work.
West Midlands Railway will increase services with a new timetable on Monday. National Express West Midlands is also expected to increase the number of buses it has out on key routes, TfWM said.
Waiting areas, bus stations and platforms have been clearly marked to help guide passengers on social distancing, and extra staff will be deployed at key interchanges to help advise the public.
Officials also said additional "heavy cleaning", including high-touch areas such as handrails, is continuing across the transport network.
Tram doors are opening automatically at stops so passengers no longer need to touch push-buttons.
Mr Street said: “Our advice is still very clear, that people should only travel on public transport if it is absolutely essential. But with more people now given the green light to return to work as lockdown restrictions begin to ease, it is clear that the number of essential journeys will increase.
“Therefore the region is standing by and is ready to deal with this increased demand. From putting on extra services to using our state-of-the-art RTCC (Regional Transport Co-ordination Centre) facility to monitor the network and update the public, we will do everything we can to keep those who rely on public transport safe.
“But we also need people to play their part, including walking, cycling, or driving to work wherever possible. For those who do rely on public transport, please respect staff and fellow passengers, and follow the official advice on how to keep yourself safe – including wearing face coverings.”
