Metrolink tram services reduced to manage COVID-related absences

Metrolink has announced a temporary reduced timetable due to coronavirus-related staff absences from August 6.

Staff for operator KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM) are continuing to work in challenging circumstances to keep people moving across the network.

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However, daily delays have been occurring across the network because staff are either off with COVID-19, or self-isolating.

The temporary change will see trams run every 12 minutes across the network, with all available vehicles used 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.”