Wednesday, 26 August 2020
- Increase in service resumes from Monday, September 7.
- Part of a wider increase to EMR’s timetables which will see 97% of the pre-Covid
- timetable introduced
- Introduced to coincide with the reopening of schools and more businesses to provide additional capacity and services
East Midlands Railway (EMR) is to increase the number of trains it runs on the Robin Hood Line on Monday, September 7.
The increase is part of a larger uplift in services which will see EMR expand its complete timetable to approximately 97% of its ‘normal’ or pre-Covid timetable across its entire network.
This will help to support the reopening of schools and businesses while also maintaining social distancing where possible.
The Robin Hood Line increase includes the reintroduction of three evening and peak time services on the route – which runs from Nottingham to Worksop.
In addition, it will continue to operate all services with three carriage trains – which provides 25% more capacity compared to its pre-Covid timetable on this route.
The punctuality of the services on the Robin Hood Line has significantly improved in recent months and EMR is determined to maintain this progress - while also providing an increased level of service and capacity when, and where, it is needed most.
As a result, EMR will continue its current service frequency in the off peak as well as omitting alternate calls at Whitwell and Langwith-Whaley-Thorns. A replacement bus service will be provided between the two stations.
To help customers plan ahead, EMR provides a Seat Finder Tool with the latest data so passengers can check how busy their journey is likely to be. The tool can be found on its website.
Customers must continue to wear a face covering, unless they are exempt. Anyone who refuses to wear one is liable to be fined £100. In addition, EMR will continue the enhanced cleaning regime introduced in March and will also continue to provide hot water and soap on board all trains as well as providing sanitiser at its 15 busiest stations.
Chris Wright, Commercial Director at East Midlands Railway, said: “All our staff have been working hard on these plans to make sure they meet the needs of our passengers and the communities we serve.
“The new timetable will mean more seats and options for our Robin Hood Line passengers and we are excited to start this new level of service on September 7.”