North West Bus Service Changes due to Coronavirus outbreak

[knutstransport]

RE: North West Bus Service Changes due to Coronavirus outbreak

(21/03/2020 14:51)Bevan Price Wrote:  I fear that the reduction in passenger numbers, and fall in revenue will lead to a lot of operators following Halton Transport into financial oblivion.

And Boris & co. are very optimistic if they really think that the situation may ease in only 12 weeks -- think 12 to 18 months at least is the most likely situation, unless the scientists can produce a reliable vaccine at record speed....

While exact details are yet to be finalised yesterday the Chancellor announced that companies who have staff who are not currently needed due to reasons relating to COVID-19 should be able to go on a period of leave and get 80% of their usual pay funded by the government. In theory that should prevent loads of people moving to jobs in other sectors and leaving an industry with a staffing crisis after all this. Of course the drivers aren't the only cost in a bus operation but they are a significant cost.

Regarding the timescale certain people seem to think COVID-19 will be like the common flu with a seasonal element to it and delaying the peak to the summer will mean fewer people get it and the NHS are better equipped to cope. Of course if that is true and it doesn't go to plan the peak might come in November or December