Transport for London (TfL) has said it will continue to offer safe and reliable transport services in the new lockdown, but urged everyone to only travel when needed.

London transport services will still run for those who need to travel for legally permitted reasons but customers are urged to check services before they travel

Its services will still run for those who need to travel for legally permitted reasons – including travel to work where it cannot be undertaken from home, to shop for necessities, seek medical assistance, visit a support bubble or for education.

But Londoners are also asked to consider using London’s network of safe walking or cycling routes where possible and to use TfL’s travel tools to plan journeys by public transport during the quieter times. As it stands, these currently sit between 08:15 and 16:00 and after 17:30 on weekdays, and before noon and after 18:00 on weekends on public transport.

It’s also warned that while services are planned to run as close to normal as possible to help social distancing, they could be affected by the impacts of coronavirus. Changes to services or station closures may be needed due to staff absences related to the pandemic; currently 10% of operational staff are absent.

As such, customers are advised to check service details before they travel, using the service information available online and through TfL travel tools including the TfL Go app.

Work to ensure an enhanced cleaning regime on London’s transport network remains in place, as does active enforcement of the national requirement for face coverings.

Andy Byford, London’s Transport Commissioner, outlined: “As has been the case throughout the pandemic, we will continue to operate safe and reliable transport services for Londoners who need to travel for one of the Government’s legally permitted reasons. Our staff and those of our contractors will be doing everything they can to run as close to a normal service as possible and keep the network cleaner than ever.

“For the protection of everyone, TfL enforcement officers and the police will of course be enforcing the use of face coverings. Please check before you travel on public transport for any alterations to services and for the quiet times to travel and consider walking or cycling wherever possible.”