Bus services reduced from this weekend as pandemic hits passenger numbers

The changes, which come into force from this weekend, follow a call from the Department for Transport for operators to reduce their services in response to falling demand.

South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive said the changes aimed to maintain network coverage in South Yorkshire, with reduced service frequencies on routes.

Bus services will run to reduced timetables, with some additional journeys operating in the early mornings and evenings.

Specific arrangements are being made for school services, to match travel needs and demand.

It follows a reduction to Supertram and rail services earlier this week.

Passengers using public transport for essential journeys are urged to check before they travel at https://www.travelsouthyorkshire.com/ for more information.

South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive’s director of customer services, Tim Taylor, said: “The changes are necessary in response to the significant drop in passengers we are seeing across South Yorkshire’s public transport network since the new lockdown, when UK government instructed everyone to stay at home, if they can, to avoid spreading the virus.

“We expect the new timetables to be in place as a minimum until the current national lockdown ends.

“The changes will keep South Yorkshire’s public transport network running for essential journeys while balancing demand for services, ensuring that critical routes used by key workers, school buses for vulnerable and key worker children, and people accessing medical appointments are maintained, wherever possible.”

Details of revised bus timetables, school services, and the latest updates on tram and rail services, will be available at travelsouthyorkshire.com/servicechanges and you can find out more about school services  at https://www.travelsouthyorkshire.com/en-gb/journeyplanning/school-buses.

Also, call Traveline on 01709 515151 for details.

Mr Taylor added: “SYPTE is working closely with the region’s bus, tram and rail companies as coronavirus restrictions continue.

“We want to reassure those that need to travel – for work or other legally permitted reasons - that, collectively, we are doing all we can to keep our customers safe on their necessary journeys.

“We’re reminding passengers to wash their hands before and after using public transport, to wear a face covering and keep a safe distance. Do not travel if you have coronavirus symptoms, you are self-isolating or you are living with someone who has symptoms.”