Author Topic: Roadmap out of lockdown - 19th July changes  (Read 322 times)

celeste

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Roadmap out of lockdown - 19th July changes
« on: 14:22:04, 16/07/21 »

Roadmap out of lockdown – 19 July changes
 
Ahead of the changes taking place on Monday next week – which will see most of the remaining legal measures around Coronavirus removed by the government – I wanted to give you a quick update about what it means for public transport passengers in Greater Manchester and how we will be helping to keep you safe as you travel.
 
While it is undoubtably good news for some people and businesses that most measures are being removed from Monday, case numbers are still high in Greater Manchester and rising in many areas. As such, many people are concerned about what the changes might mean for them – in particular those people who may have underlying health concerns and may have to rely on public transport or have no other option.
 
On that basis, and while the government has removed the legal obligation for people to wear face coverings in shops and crucially on public transport, passengers in Greater Manchester will still be required to wear a face covering on Metrolink unless they are exempt. People who fail to comply could be refused travel or face a fine of up to £100. People using bus stations and interchanges and when using the TfGM-operated Ring and Ride system will also be required to wear face coverings unless they are exempt.
 
While the wearing of face coverings on buses and trains cannot be mandated by TfGM, people are expected to wear face coverings when using these services or when using taxis or private hire vehicles in Greater Manchester.
 
All of the changes will be kept under continual review and any changes will be led by science and public safety considerations.
 
Alongside the requirement for passengers to wear a face covering on the Metrolink network and at bus stations and interchanges, and the expectation that people wear them on buses and trains, there are a range of other actions passengers can take to ensure everyone can travel with confidence:Clean your hands frequently by washing with soap and water or using hand sanitiser.
  • Use contactless payment if you can.
  • Where possible, open windows to maintain fresh air flow and ventilation.
  • Services are likely to be busier - if you can, travel during quieter times.
  • Consider walking or cycling, particularly for short trips.
  • Please be kind and consider fellow passengers when travelling on public transport.

  • In addition, TfGM and other transport operators continue to deliver a series of interventions to help keep passengers travelling with confidence including:Hand sanitiser dispensers have been installed at bus stations, at interchanges and on the busiest Metrolink stops.
  • Commonly touched surfaces across the public transport network, including rails, handles and doors, are being disinfected and cleaned regularly.
  • We're keeping fresh air flowing on trams, buses and trains.
  • People with hidden disabilities are being supported to give them confidence to travel safely.
  • Police and TravelSafe officers regularly patrol the public transport network to promote safe travel and engage with passengers about Covid-19 guidance.
  • A range of tickets and passes are available to help people travel more flexibly.

  • Please stay safe, travel with confidence, enjoy the lifting of restrictions in a responsible way and keep checking the TfGM coronavirus travel webpage for the latest advice.
     

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    All that's necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing