NEWPORT Bus have announced that from tomorrow, they will operate a special 7am-7pm bus timetable and no Sunday service.

The move is due to a significant reduction in demand and ongoing staff availability since the UK Government detailed further emergency measures.

The company has had to develop and operate a special timetable causing further reduction in bus services.

This change will enable the company to work with a reduced staff level, whilst protecting a greater number of people and providing a level of public transport for essential travel.

Newport Bus will also carry on with offering free alternative transport to NHS and emergency services personnel who live in Newport and Cwmbran where the bus service times do not suit.

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In a statement, the firm said: "Those who need to use our alternative travel arrangements can get in touch, providing a telephone number, pick up point, place of work and shift times either via email to our dedicated email address nhs-support@newporttransport.co.uk or phone on 01633 211 202.

"Free travel is achieved simply by showing their NHS or emergency services ID badge at time of boarding."

Newport Bus also announced that from Thursday we will also enforce strict social distancing measures on our services.

Until further notice driving staff will only allow 50 per cent of the seating capacity to be utilized. Customers are asked not to sit together and t refrain from using the seats directly behind the driver to assist reducing the risk of spreading the virus.

Scott Pearson, Managing Director, said: “As a company, we understand how critical it is for people to have access to a bus service for work and essential shopping. By reducing our timetable further, we can prolong our running of the bus services in Newport.

"I would like to take the opportunity to remind bus users that whilst we have stepped up the cleaning regime on our buses, especially the high touch point areas and the driver’s cabin, we appreciate your effort in practicing social distancing with our staff and between yourself on boarding and using the bus whenever possible.

"I am sincerely grateful to all the staff at Newport Transport for doing an amazing job for our customers and for their patience and understanding as we navigate through these unprecedented challenges.”