In an attempt to mitigate the effects of the ongoing series of bus driver strikes, Isle of Man Transport has announced that a number of additional train services are being put in place on Friday, 20th March, to help commuters who normally travel by bus. In addition, bus fare pricing will also be in place from Friday to Sunday on both the Isle of Man Steam Railway and Manx Electric Railway.
Strike day Manx Electric services will follow a similar pattern to those which have operated earlier this month, whilst Friday, 20th March, will see the Steam Railway operate a commuter friendly 7.45 am departure from Port Erin railway station and a school-run friendly 3.10pm return from Douglas. This return stops at Castletown station at 3.50pm to pick up school children heading south. (The 15:55 MER service from Ramsey has been very heavily used by school students previously.)
Additionally, Friday’s final steam railway ‘R’ timetable service will depart slightly later at 4.20pm to assist commuters in Douglas trying to get home. This service will have the additional benefit of allowing those who take the train to bypass the chronic traffic congestion currently afflicting Douglas owing to ongoing roadworks around the capital.
Timetables are as follows:
