Surge in passengers switching to National Express for travel between Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds amid Trans Pennine rail issues
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Published: 28th September 2023
National Express has announced a huge surge in passengers travelling on its Trans Pennine coach network following a boost to the number of services in May this year.
In the last four months, the UK’s leading scheduled coach operator has seen a 49%* increase in passengers using its services linking Leeds, Manchester, Manchester Airport and Liverpool. Between January and August 2023 passenger numbers are up 69%, compared to the same period in 2022.
On 5 May 2023, National Express increased the number of services between Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool from eight to 13 a day to meet demand. The company also invested in increasing its fleet, adding three new vehicles to serve these routes.
Earlier this year, the company also announced an uplift in coach services between Manchester and London, with up to 17 services a day offering customers an affordable, reliable and greener way to travel to the capital.
In 2022 over 16 million people used the National Express coach network - up from over 10 million from 2021. The rail strikes and soaring costs for motorists are all believed to be contributing factors in the increase in passengers, with 12 percent of rail users reported switching to coach travel for better value and reliability of service.
John Boughton, Commercial Director for National Express, said:
“We’ve all seen the challenges that rail in the north west is having. People deserve a reliable and affordable public transport system so we are stepping up to meet demand. 2023 has been hugely busy across our Trans Pennine services so far and customers are switching to our coaches because it’s reliable, great value and you’re guaranteed a seat.
“With significant investment in our new and enhanced services, we are making it even easier for our customers to enjoy a relaxing, comfortable journey with us and we look forward to welcoming even more customers onboard.”
National Express, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, currently operates over 550 services across the country. Passengers can expect a safe and comfortable experience on board, with leather reclining seats, free wi-fi, air conditioning, USB power sockets and a generous luggage allowance of up to 20kg.
For more information and to plan your journey visit www.nationalexpress.com.
* The figure (49%) relates to passenger numbers between May and August 2023 vs passenger numbers between January and April 2023.
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