GWR increase Thames Valley train services as schools re-open
The train company say they'll be at 70% service level compared to its pre-covid timetable
Last updated 5th Mar 2021
Great Western Railway will increase the number of trains it runs as schools and colleges across its network return to the classroom on Monday.
Rail services were reduced when a third nationwide lockdown was introduced in January, and the rail operator is implementing a phased return to its previous, full timetable.
The train operator has reviewed its database of ‘school trains’, services that students and pupils use in high numbers, and ensured that those services where they have been removed are reinstated for Monday 8 March as schools return. Extra staff will also be on hand at key stations to help provide advice and guidance to returning students.
The increase will see the train operator return to approximately 70% of its pre-Covid (Dec 19) timetable, with a further increase planned for Monday 29 March to support any easing of Government travel guidance, prior to the usual Summer timetable change in May.
GWR Managing Director Mark Hopwood said:
“Following confirmation that all schools and colleges will return on Monday 8 March all our key school and college services will be operating.
“Many are already running, but where they are not, we will have them reinstated to support students, pupils and returning staff.
“Over the last year, we have worked closely with colleges and schools as well as our colleagues on mapping these services, and a lot of hard work has been done to make sure people feel that they can travel safely and with confidence.
“As restrictions ease over the course of the coming months and more passengers return to the railway, we will continue to restore services to our timetable.”
Safety
GWR is presently operating a reduced timetable during the latest national lockdown and are asking passengers to follow Government guidelines, only travelling for work if essential or for other legally permitted reasons. Find out more at gwr.com/safety.
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