There is no major change to services on Reading Buses.
That’s the key message from the operator following the government’s latest lockdown measures.
But Reading Buses emphasise that the advice is ‘only travel when it is essential.’
The company is currently arranging some small changes to services, from Monday 11 January, to reflect the closure of schools. This includes the suspension of dedicated buses for schools numbered 81-93 and the extra buses, to allow for social distancing for school students, numbered 900 and above.
There will be very minor changes on purple 17 which runs up to every 8 minutes, but customers may need to wait a minute or two more on some occasions. The University specific claret 21a buses will not run, but claret 21 will run as current.
All other routes will run to their school holiday timetables which generally affects only a handful of journeys across the network.
Said Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer Robert Williams: “Despite the recent announcements and the feeling of uncertainty and change, one thing that hasn’t changed is the fact that we’re here for you.
“The vast majority of our buses will still be running as normal with minor changes at school times. This is because we know that our buses are a lifeline for those who rely on us for essential journeys, and especially key workers.
“By running a normal service there should be plenty of space to maintain social distancing.
“For most people, there will be no change – you simply catch your bus as normal. If you do need to travel with us, rest assured we are doing everything we can to ensure that your journey with us is as safe and clean as it possibly can be.”
Robert also gave an update on their Green Line services. “Green Line 702 will run as normal, but Green Line 703 will run to its Saturday timetable from Mondays to Saturdays. Sundays will operate as normal.”
Reading Buses ask customers to wash their hands before and after getting the bus, use hand sanitiser – which is provided on every bus – sit by the green ticks so that social distancing is maximised and wear a face covering.
Robert also spoke about customers being able to get the travel they paid for before the announcement was made by the Government.
He explained: “We know that many customers will have bought longer term tickets for both their children and themselves thinking that schools, colleges and universities would be open.
“We have paused all tickets on our app that are 7 days or longer and are offering exchanges for smartcard travel so that customers can still use the bus once this lockdown is over. The full information can be found on the Reading Buses website.”
Customers should visit www.reading-buses.co.uk for full details.
