PUBLIC transport use across the region has plummeted by 86 per cent since the start of the coronavirus outbreak.
The figures, for rail, bus and tram usage, were revealed by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) which said it showed people were adhering to Government advice to only travel if it was absolutely necessary.
The advice from Number 10 is that people should only leave their homes for four reasons –
- To shop for essential items.
- To care for vulnerable people or for a medical appointment.
- For a daily exercise session which should be done locally.
- For work and only if that work could not be done at home.
Transport bosses have thanked the vast majority of regular commuters who are staying at home and the hard working staff who have kept the network running for key workers and those collecting essential shopping and medical supplies.
But TfWM, which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), is concerned a small minority of travellers are still making non-essential journeys as usage in Birmingham and the West Midlands remains slightly higher than similar UK cities under coronavirus lockdown.
TfWM has urged everyone to follow the Government advice and only travel if essential.
West Midlands Railway announced a reduced timetable last weekend and the region’s largest bus operator National Express West Midlands and West Midlands Metro announced new timetables and reductions in services from today.
Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Thank you to everyone who is following the Government’s clear advice and staying at home.
“However some people are still travelling unnecessary, and I would urge these people to please listen to the Government advice and protect yourself and others. If we are going to beat Coronavirus then everyone in the West Midlands needs to play their part.”
Visit networkwestmidlands.com/ for more information.
