Tram services to reduce temporarily to manage Covid-19-related absences

Date published: 05 August 2021


Metrolink has announced that a temporary reduced timetable will be in place from tomorrow (Friday 6 August) with trams running every 12 minutes across the network.

The change is due to coronavirus-related staff absences, and to ensure Metrolink can provide a more reliable and consistent service for customers. Daily delays have been occurring across the network because staff are either off with coronavirus, or self-isolating.

The operator, KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM) will use all available vehicles to provide as much capacity as possible and ‘double’ trams operating along the busiest lines. Where possible, and subject to staff availability, additional services will run at the busiest times.

It is expected that the reduced service will be in place throughout August, and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and KAM is working towards the reintroduction of more frequent services ahead of the return to school and the workplace in early September.

TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, Danny Vaughan, said: “I think everyone is aware that the ‘pingdemic’ is having a significant impact across multiple sectors, including transport.

“We have been working really hard to keep people moving, but the reality is staff absences are impacting services.

“Moving to a temporary 12-minute frequency will ensure we can operate a more reliable service and alleviate some of the pressure staff are under, which is extremely important for their own wellbeing.

“I’d like to reassure passengers we will add extra trams where we can and will be aiming to return to a more frequent service at the start of September. We’re sorry for any inconvenience this may cause but hope that our customers understand and bear with us at this time.”

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