LOCAL bus services are changing from Monday (March 23) with reduced timetables due to a significant drop in passanger numbers as a result of the Coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic.
The advice to work from home and to socially distance ourselves, on top of the closure of schools and colleges, has led to a sharp downturn in bus passengers, says Managing Director Ben Wakerley.
Despite this Mr Wakerley, can’t praise his employees enough.
He said: “Our team have shown great flexibility and commitment to the town throughout the pandemic. I am extremely grateful to all of them, because the whole team are making personal sacrifices to keep buses running and to connect key workers to employment centres.
“Customers can help Drivers by using our app, Touch & Go, Midas or contactless bank card payments instead of cash wherever possible, but cash is still accepted.”
From this Monday 23rd March, Warrington’s Own Buses will be implementing a new timetable. The revised timetables keep buses running on most routes, but they are less frequent than previously, reflecting passenger demand and to stop empty buses running around town unnecessarily.
The new timetables will be posted on the website: warringtonsownbuses.co.uk.
The bus company has had many enquiries about period tickets, such as Touch & Go, and are investigating the options, with a view to making an announcement next week.
The company has been praised for relaxing rules to allow older people to travel free at any time of the day.
