This week’s roundup of news from the UK railway industry.
Train drivers’ union, ASLEF, calls for better toilet facilities for staff
Some train drivers do not drink water, tea or coffee when on duty to avoid having to go to the toilet because of the lack of facilities, according to a trade union.
Aslef said staff and passengers deserved to have access to decent toilets and washing facilities.
PM talks up ‘moral mission’ to level up as he defends scaling back rail upgrades
Ministers announced last week that the eastern leg of HS2 between the Midlands and Leeds would be cut, while a promised Northern Powerhouse Rail link between Leeds and Manchester would run partly on existing tracks.
Network Rail urged to improve train punctuality after performance dip
Network Rail has been urged to improve train punctuality by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR).
Drivers strike to hit Night Tube as services resume
Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union will walk out in a dispute over rosters.
Penalties for rail fare dodgers to rise to £100
The Department for Transport (DfT) said it is hiking the penalty fare in response to “growing concern” its impact is limited due to being frozen at £20 for 16 years.
Latest Service Updates
Gatwick Express – Gatwick Express services remain suspended until further notice.
Hull Trains – Hull Trains are currently running a reduced service, in line with passenger demand and current government advice.
Transport For London Status
If you need to travel this weekend, here are planned works that may affect your journey.
- Central, Victoria: Special services to coincide with the current strike action
Our transport network has never been cleaner. Imperial College London run monthly tests for coronavirus on the transport network and found no trace. You can read their recently published report.
Air continuously flows through all our trains, trams and buses. For example, on average, air in a Tube train changes every few minutes. Buses are fitted with air extraction and ventilation systems and we also leave windows open throughout the passenger area to keep a flow of fresh air.
Please continue to walk or cycle part of your journey where possible. If using public transport, travel during quieter times if you can. This will make social distancing easier. The quieter times to travel are:
- Between 08:15 and 16:00 and after 17:30 on weekdays
- Before noon and after 18:00 on weekends
Our TfL Go app can help you plan your journey and show the quieter times to travel.
You must continue to wear a face-covering over your nose and mouth at all times when on the transport network, unless exempt. The overwhelming majority of people are complying with this requirement, and the British Transport Police, the Metropolitan Police and our own officers are on the network to check compliance. Fines of up to £6,400 exist for anyone who does not comply.
Please also wash or sanitise your hands before and after travel.
London Underground Status
Due to the coronavirus, the following service changes will be in place until further notice. Please plan ahead and check before you travel.
- No Night Tube or Night Overground service
- The Waterloo & City line service will operate peak hours only Monday to Friday, with no service at weekends or on public holidays
London Overground
Due to Coronavirus, there is no Night Overground service until further notice.
There’s good service across London Overground.
Most London Overground routes are currently operating with revised timetables.
Check before you travel and plan your journey ahead of time.
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