Advice to passengers as Northern timetables change

Passengers who travel on Northern trains are being reminded that new timetables are being introduced from Monday (17 May). 

The rail operator says the new timetables are designed to provide more services on more key routes as the network continues to feel the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

Northern is warning customers to plan carefully as a result of the new schedules, which come as lockdown restrictions are being eased further in line with step three of the government's roadmap. 

Local services ran by Northern include Manchester to Hadfield and Glossop, Manchester to Marple and Sheffield, and Manchester to Buxton. 

Chris Jackson, Regional Director at Northern, said: “As more people return to workplaces and more leisure journeys are made, it is important that everyone takes note of the new train times and plans travel carefully.

“And, of course, anyone travelling by train still needs to be conscious of coronavirus and continue following advice on how to keep themselves, and others, as safe as possible.

“Through enhanced cleaning and an increase in services, we are doing all we can to allow our customers to travel with confidence but, by following a few simple steps, passengers can also help themselves.”

Northern is also advising passengers to:

• Always wear a face covering when on a train or at a station (unless specific exemptions apply)
• Regularly wash hands before and after travel and use hand sanitiser when on the network
• Take all litter and rubbish of trains and use the bins provided
• Be considerate of others
• Respect staff who are working to keep people on the move
• Travel outside of peak hours where possible
• Plan journeys carefully and be aware of the new train times

Mr Jackson added: “We know these are challenging times and some people may be nervous about returning to the railway, particularly during busy periods. It is, therefore, vitally important that everyone plays their part in helping reduce potential transmission of coronavirus.

“Trains are likely to be busier than they have been in recent months, but we are ready to welcome people back to the railway and are bringing in additional services for many major towns and cities to give customers more journey choice and flexibility.

“We have brought in as many additional services as possible with the resource we have available. We have prioritised routes and times where there is the most significant demand, but some routes will not see any enhancements and, on a handful of routes there will be a reduction in services.”

Details of Northern’s new timetables can be found online at northernrailway.co.uk or via National Rail Enquiries.