'Only travel on our trains if absolutely essential': Fresh warning to Northampton rail users

West Midlands Railway is stepping up its messaging on essential travel and social distancing ahead of timetable changes this weekend.

Major stations across the WMR network are receiving a makeover to reinforce the need for social distancing.

With some workplaces across the West Midlands beginning to reopen, the operator is urging passengers to avoid the rail network unless they have no other travel option.

To help passengers maintain social distancing, West Midlands Railway is installing new signage at stations including markings on platforms, staircases and in ticket halls.

Additionally, a one-way system is being brought into operation at Birmingham’s Snow Hill station to help passengers flow through the concourse more easily.

Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director for West Midlands Railway, said:“I would like to thank our customers who have continued to stay away from the railways to save space for those people making truly essential journeys with no other travel option.

“Maintaining social distancing on the railway network is a real challenge because the concept goes against the entire principle of mass transit. We have had to think hard and move fast to bring in new ways of moving people within social distancing constraints.

“It is absolutely essential that our customers play their part by being kind, considerate and travelling responsibly. Only use public transport if you absolutely have to travel and have no other alternative.”

A new West Midlands Railway timetable comes into operation from Monday 18 May. Passengers making essential journeys are advised to check their train times before travelling at www.wmr.uk/coronavirus