South Wales Transport: NAT Group confirms ‘significant’ service changes during lockdown
In line with Welsh Government lockdown restrictions, NAT Group will be introducing significant timetable changes from January 25 until restrictions are lifted or reduced.
To assist with the ‘Stay at Home’ message where only essential travel is permitted, NAT Group has complied with Welsh Government directives to reduce its operations in South Wales.
Local routes will be reduced by between 15% and 50% until directed otherwise. From now until 25th, NAT Group is working on finalising timetables, altering staff rotas and communicating the changes to its team and passengers to ensure disruptions are minimal.
NAT Group Managing Director Adam Keen said: “We have been closely working with Welsh Government, ministers and local authorities to coordinate these timetable changes and there is still a lot of work ongoing behind the scenes to implement and ensure a smooth transition. The adjustments to services have been very carefully thought out so that those who need to use our services, can.
“The message from the government is clear that only essential journeys should be taking place and by reducing the number of buses running unnecessarily, we are helping to prevent social travel and are doing our bit to stop the spread of the virus.
“We are predicting the changes will be in place until March, certainly the school routes will be reduced until February half term.”
From January 18, NAT Group will only accept cashless payment methods until such time as a further announcement is made. Adam continued: “I would like to once again recognise the amazing work of our frontline staff who continue to deliver excellent service in these difficult circumstances.
“The safety of our staff is paramount and handling cash is a significant concern for them. We have listened to their concerns and acted accordingly.” Customers can pay using Apple Pay, Google Pay, contactless debit card or via the NAT Group app.
NAT Group is one of South Wales’ leading public transport providers. Since the pandemic began, the company has introduced stringent cleaning procedures on all vehicles, limited passenger numbers and employed seat restrictions.
For information about NAT Group, visit www.natgroup.co.uk.