BUS OPERATORS TO INTRODUCE FURTHER SERVICE REDUCTIONS IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19

Leading Oxfordshire bus operators will all introduce further temporary reductions to services from Monday.

Oxford Bus Company, Thames Travel and Stagecoach have announced additional changes in response to COVID-19. The industry, which transports more people than all other forms of public transport combined, is determined to maintain a relevant network throughout this unprecedented decline in bus and coach use. The special timetables are designed to ensure that essential key workers such as NHS staff, teachers and those in the food supply chain can get to and from work.

Key changes include city services operating on reduced frequencies, and the withdrawal of the Park&Ride 300 and 500 services. Customers are advised to check operator websites for full details of new temporary timetables.

To further support customers at this difficult time Oxford Bus Company will temporarily accept Stagecoach tickets on the City2, City3, City3A, City5, City8 and City9 services during the operation of the special timetables. Stagecoach will accept Oxford Bus Company tickets on its services 1, 2, 3, 3A and 8 over the same period. The increased ticketing flexibility will enable customers to travel on the next available bus, rather than waiting for the bus of a specific operator.

Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel can also confirm planned fare increases that were due to commence on April 5^th have been postponed. Stagecoach have also postponed a planned fare increase it had announced, that was due to come into force on 29th March. This means fares will remain at current levels for those who still need to use bus services during the current COVID-19 restrictions.

Key workers who feel the special timetables do not meet their needs are encouraged to get in touch via contact forms on the Oxford Bus Company, Thames Travel and Stagecoach websites and the operators will look to assist where possible.

All bus operators are maintaining extensive cleaning regimes and high levels of hygiene to protect the health and well-being of passengers and colleagues. The regimes are carefully monitored, and we are ensuring a continued greater focus on high-touch areas.

Phil Southall, Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel Managing Director, and Chris Coleman, Managing Director of Stagecoach in Oxfordshire said: “As operators we have remained focused on the welfare of our colleagues and customers, providing a relevant service, and preserving the future of our businesses.

“Due to a further significant and unsustainable drop in passenger numbers we have reviewed all services and are introducing changes designed to match supply to demand, support key workers and protect the long-term future of the businesses for everyone.

“We apologise for the short notice, but this is a fast-moving situation that requires fast action. We will continue to monitor throughout and maintain communication with staff, partners and customers. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their understanding at this uncertain time for us all.”