COVID-19 | Changes to train timetable

13th May 2020
liverpool city region

From Monday 18 May, the frequency and number of rail services on our network will increase.  

The decision has been taken in light of the Prime Minister’s announcement on Sunday in which he set out a roadmap for the gradual reduction in lockdown measures. The announcement included guidance that people working in industries such as construction and manufacturing can now begin returning to work. 

The guidance issued makes clear that only those that absolutely must travel by train, should do so. Merseyrail has increased services to a level that aims to meet an increase in demand, whilst taking into account the number of railway staff isolating due to the virus. 

Passengers are reminded that these services are for essential journeys only. If you can use alternative forms of transport such as driving, cycling or walking please do so in line with the government guidance. 

We are looking at ways to reduce queuing times at booking offices and more information will be available soon. 

Ticket Acceptance

Due to the change in services following the Prime Minister’s announcement, Merseyrail tickets will no longer be accepted on buses within the City Region after 19:00 from Monday 18 May.

Similarly, the decision has been made to remove the temporary lifting of the 09:30 concessionary travel restrictions from Thursday 14 May. To reduce demand during peak times and ensure the safety of our passengers as more industries return to work, concessionary passengers will no longer be able to travel before 09:30, between Monday and Fridays.

Passenger Advice

In line with government advice released by the Department for Transport, Merseyrail is encouraging passengers to follow social distancing guidelines when using  the network: 

  • Maintain social distancing wherever possible 
  • Wear face coverings if you can 
  • Use contactless payments where possible 
  • Avoid peak travel if you can 
  • Wash or sanitise hands as soon as possible before and after travel 
  • Follow advice from staff and be considerate to other passengers  

Timetable Information

Trains will now operate within normal operating hours, albeit at a reduced frequency. These are as follows: 

Monday to Saturday 

Southport – Hunts Cross line 

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service. 

Please note: Additional services will operate during peak times Monday to Friday. 

Ormskirk line 

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service. 

Kirkby line 

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service. 

West Kirby & New Brighton lines 

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 45 minutes until end of service. 

Chester line 

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then every 60 minutes until end of service. 

Ellesmere Port line 

Trains every 30 minutes until approximately 19:00 then a reduced frequency until end of service. 

Sunday 

Sunday services will still operate between the hours of 08:00 and 20:00. 

Passengers are also advised to check before they travel. This can be done by visiting our website, checking the Merseyrail Twitter account @merseyrail or by sending a message on WhatsApp on 0151 555 1111. 

Full timetables are available below.