More buses added on busy routes to tackle the spread of Covid-19 as Hemel children prepare to return to school

Hertfordshire County Council has announced that more buses will be available on busy routes from Monday, March 8, as children return to school and college.

The ‘duplicate bus service’ will be dedicated for school travel only to help those who are dependent on existing transport to socially distance.

Derrick Ashley, Executive Member for Growth, Infrastructure, Planning and the Economy said: “We are committed to keeping our residents and young people safe as we transition out of lockdown.

“The additional buses will reduce demand on our existing public transport and offer more space for passengers, particularly at peak times.

"This is a vital part of government guidance on stopping the spread of Covid-19: Hands, Face, Space.

“We cannot underestimate the importance of education for our young people.

"This is part of our commitment to ensure they can get to school as safely as possible, and our residents can use our public transport with confidence.”

Some duplicate bus services are be operated by a different bus company but the route number is the same.

The buses may run up to 5 minutes earlier than the scheduled service or follow behind.

All of Arriva's duplicates in Hertfordshire will be running as dedicated school buses with an “S” on the blind in front of the number to differentiate from normal services.

Each of these buses will also have “Reserved for school/college pupils only" on the blind and a yellow school sign in the front and rear window.

Children and young people aged 11 and over must wear a face covering on all public transport. This includes dedicated school or college transport.

Other operators duplicates will display 'Students Only' or 'School Duplicate' signage.

A full list of services that will have a duplicate bus can be found here.