From Monday 18 May, the frequency and number of rail services on the Merseyrail network will change.
The decision has been taken in light of the Prime Minister’s announcement on Sunday in which he set out a roadmap for the gradual reduction in lockdown measures. The announcement included guidance that people working in industries such as construction and manufacturing can now begin returning to work.
The guidance issued makes clear that only those that 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.
Passengers are reminded that these services are for essential journeys only. If you can use alternative forms of transport including cycling or walking please do so in line with the government guidance.
Trains will now 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 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service.
Please note: 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 the hours of 08:00 and 20:00.
Full details of the timetable can be found on our website www.merseyrail.org.
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
- Arrive at the station in good time
- Leave plenty of time for your journey – you might not make the train you planned due to social distancing measures
- Wash or sanitise hands as soon as possible before and after travel
- Follow advice from staff and be considerate to other passengers
- Please be kind and respectful to staff and other passengers.
Passengers are also advised to check before and on their day of travel. This can be done by visiting the Merseyrail website www.merseyrail.org, the Merseyrail Twitter account @merseyrail or by sending a message on WhatsApp on 0151 555 1111.
Andy Heath, Managing Director at Merseyrail, said: “We have been working with government and key stakeholders to develop an increased service that aims to meet demand for those who need to travel
“It is essential that everyone plays their part in helping to keep the trains for those who really need them. So, only use our services if you absolutely must while maintaining social distancing where it is possible to do so.
“We are committed to providing a reliable service to those who need to travel across the Liverpool City Region as we move through these uncertain times, and I would ask all passengers to act responsibly at all times when travelling, and listen to advice given by staff and displayed at our stations.
For more information and advice about public transport services please visit the Merseytravel website www.merseytravel.gov.uk.
