TEMPORARY changes to bus services in Cumbria and North Lancashire are being introduced by Stagecoach from Monday (March 23).

They follow new government advice around social contact and non-essential travel to help combat the coronavirus.

A reduced timetable will operate across the region until further notice. The timetables have been carefully created to ensure that critical routes are maintained wherever possible.

It follows extensive action by bus operators to enhance cleaning regimes and protect the safety and well-being of customers and bus workers.

Separately, the bus and coach industry is also engaging with the Government to help ensure the long-term future of bus services, which are critical to the economy and local communities, is protected.

Rob Jones, MD for Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire, said: “Along with other bus operators and key sectors, we are working hard to support the national effort to tackle the current challenging situation.

“The safety of our customers and our employees is at the heart of everything we do. We also know that our bus services play a vital role in keeping the country running and ensuring key sector personnel get to work.

“Following the latest government advice, we have reviewed our timetables and made temporary changes which reflect the reduced level of travel. Our objective has been to focus resources on where we know they are needed most at this time.

“We are working hard to best maintain essential services, safeguard jobs and ensure the long-term sustainability of a sector which is central to our economy and communities.

“We will continue to monitor the position, liaise closely with government and other authorities, and respond as appropriate to what is a dynamic situation.”