Commuter rail services axed due to staff self-isolating
Commuter rail operators have today said that they will reduce the number of services they run from next week as a result of staff shortages due to workers being forced to isolate.
Govia Thameslink, which runs both the Thameslink and Southern franchises, confirmed that it would run a reduced weekday service from Monday.
The firm said that reducing the number of services would give commuters “more certainty” over their journeys.
The Thameslink routes affected are between Sutton and St Albans City and between Gatwick Airport and Bedford.
The Southern routes affected are between Clapham Junction and Watford Junction and Milton Keynes, between Beckenham Junction and London Bridge, and between London Bridge and Caterham/Tattenham Corner.
Govia Thameslink’s chief operating officer Steve White said: “Regrettably, we have had to make the difficult decision to reduce some weekday services.
“Unfortunately, like other industries across the country, coronavirus continues to affect our operations. We have fewer colleagues available at the moment due to a significant increase recently in the number of our people affected by Covid-19.
“Our colleagues have continued to work tirelessly throughout the pandemic and we’re really sorry for any inconvenience caused by the latest changes.
“By bringing in a reduced timetable now, it will help to reduce short notice cancellations and give customers more certainty. We strongly advise passengers to check before they travel, including at weekends.”
Northern Rail has already been forced to reduce services due to the so-called “pingdemic”, which is now affecting wide swathes of the economy.
Supermarkets, hospitality venues, and transport operators have all warned that the requirement for staff to isolate could derail the economic recovery from the pandemic.
Downing Street said earlier this week that exemptions to the Test and Trace system will be given to some businesses in vital sectors if they apply, however it is not clear what sectors are eligible.