Grand Central consults passengers as company plans return for services

The company, which runs services through Brighouse, Halifax and Dewsbury to London, will use findings from the survey as it looks to shape a return to services following an initial two month ‘hibernation’ period which Grand Central bosses will review during May.

Grand Central Commercial and Customer Policy Director, Louise Blyth said: “Suspending all our trains at the beginning of April was a tough decision but, with the huge drop in passenger numbers, it was financially necessary. We operate under an open access business model which means we rely on ticket sales to run our services.

“Obviously getting our trains back into the communities they serve is our main priority but we have to get the timing right.

"With the UK trying to understand what the new normal will look like, we decided to ask our customers what they want to see from us once restrictions are lifted.

"The survey we are launching today is intended to get right to the crux of when and how people intend to use our trains once it’s possible again.”

The survey will seek opinions from existing customers through email but will also roll out across Grand Central’s social media platforms.

Mrs Blyth said the short questionnaire will seek attitudes on a number of post-lockdown issues such as social distancing on trains and reasons for travel, amongst other questions.

To take part in the survey, go to grandcentralcommunication.co.uk.