Essential travel only on public transport

As local residents prepare to break the lockdown shackles and head further afield this weekend, a reminder has been issued to stay off public transport unless absolutely essential.

The five-mile rule was finally binned in Wales on Monday, and with the easing of other restrictions to allow popular tourist sites to reopen and better weather on the way, we can expect the weekend to be busy.

Powys County Council has already issued a cautious ‘welcome back’ message, but this morning, transport chiefs are reminding people to stay away from trains and buses unless absolutely essential.

“There have been changes to Welsh Government guidance, but please remember that public transport remains for essential travel only. Please consider using other forms of transport,” said a spokesperson for Transport for Wales.

“We’re working hard so key workers can travel to and from work (and) so you can make essential journeys such as for essential shopping or medical needs.”

The guidance rules out day trips to Shrewsbury and beyond or the Welsh coast, and those who need to make an essential trip by train or bus are encouraged to avoid the busy rush ‘hours’ between 7am-9am and 4pm-6.30pm.

The full Transport for Wales guidance can be read here.