Rail services set to increase as pandemic restrictions ease

Coronavirus: New timetable will expand commuter services

Train services across Britain could increase by 70% from Monday 18 May in preparation an easing of travel restrictions, the BBC has reported.

The expansion of services would help the railway system cope with an expected rise in passengers as parts of the population return to work.

Currently only half of normal rail services are running due to the coronavirus lockdown. Implementing new timetables and reintroducing trains will require planning.

The BBC cites comments by rail managers and government sources that services will be increased to about 70% of the normal timetable. It is likely that the focus will be on urban commuter lines, rather than long distance intercity routes.

A spokesman for the Department for Transport said: “We are examining a range of options on how transport can respond to support the recovery in a timely way when the time comes and it is safe to do so. We continue to prepare for any scenario we might be asked to support.”