Merseyrail announced a reduced timetable starting today (Thursday 2 April) as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, with services operating between 07:00 and 19:00 Monday to Saturday (Sunday services differ).
This was based on staff availability to provide a reliable service to key workers and those making essential journeys.
Following feedback from those still travelling on the network, Merseyrail’s planning team has worked hard and staff have agreed to longer hours to make small adjustments to the reduced timetable using the resources available.
Merseyrail is now able to provide an additional limited service on some lines between 19:00 and 22:00 Monday to Saturday to better accommodate those travelling to or from work.
The additional evening services are as follows:
Kirkby line
Additional services leaving Kirkby at 19:13, 20:13, 21: 13 and 21:58
Additional services leaving Liverpool Central at 19:35, 20:35 and 21:35
Southport line (Southport to Liverpool Central only)
Additional services leaving Southport at 18:43, 19:43 and 20:43
Additional services leaving Liverpool Central at 19:53, 20:38 and 21:38
Chester line
Additional services leaving Chester at 20:15 and 22:00
Additional services leaving Moorfields and terminating at Rock Ferry at 22:41
Additional services leaving Moorfields and terminating at Chester at 19:11 and 20:56
West Kirby line
Additional services leaving West Kirby at 20:01 and 21:31
Additional services leaving Moorfields at 19:15, 20:31 and 22:01 (22:01 terminates at Bidston)
As the situation is changing so rapidly, it is likely that this timetable may change again in the future.
All passengers are advised to check Merseyrail’s website and Twitter account @merseyrail before travel for the most up-to-date information.
Passengers who still require alternative forms of transport due to the reduced timetable are encouraged to visit https://www.merseytravel.gov.uk/bus/ as many bus services are continuing to run into the evening.
Andy Heath, Managing Director at Merseyrail, said: “Our colleagues have continued to work tirelessly to keep our train service operating. The role they have played in this national effort to support our NHS and other key workers in the fight against COVID-19 is commendable.
“However, we are now unfortunately seeing an increasing amount of them being affected by COVID-19, and – as such – have made the difficult decision to significantly alter the way that we operate.
“This is not a decision we have taken lightly, and we recognise the impact it will have.
“Merseyrail is committed to providing a service to key workers and those making essential journeys across the Liverpool City Region during this difficult time.
“The announcement today is about just that – ensuring the service we can offer is as reliable as possible as we move through these uncertain times.
“The prime minister was quite clear that people should only be travelling where absolutely necessary, and I would encourage people to continue to follow that instruction.”
