The global Coronavirus pandemic has caused a seismic shift in the way people approach what were previously established norms.
Working from home has become a necessity for many, and the prospect of commuting seems a distant memory.
Warnings to avoid public transport have meant leisure trips have been scaled back, and the option to explore many parts of the country restricted.
At Transport for the North, we continue to support the transport industry, in the response and recovery from Covid-19.
Our focus is on the needs of passengers and businesses, along with the short-term investment needed to support ambitions to ‘build back better’.
The crisis has significantly changed the operating environment for rail services, and the demand for active travel routes.
But as the country looks towards a brighter future, it’s important we make the case for a sustainable investment pipeline that supports the delivery of service commitments and future enhancements specified in our Strategic Transport Plan.
Creating a thriving North of England through transport investment will be crucial for levelling-up post-Covid-19, and that means listening to those who use the services.
These insights highlighted the concerns of commuters pre-pandemic, and outline the issues that will need addressing when it is safe to start opening back up.
Amy, a single parent to two boys, said they loved to take the train for days out across the North.
And she said investment in public transport is crucial for her teenage son, who may never be able to drive due to his autism.
Amy added: “I think we need to invest in transport as a lot people use public transport.
“But it needs to be improved on to show it’s not bad to use and is better than cars in reducing air pollution.”
Esta and her family live in rural Cumbria, and she says public transport is a lifeline for everyone in the area.
The rail network gives them access to the major urban hubs, and allows them to reach services right across the North.
“Transport investment is very important,” she added.
“Living in a rural area, trains are important, there are more opportunities available for the kids future outside the area.
“Better connections would mean the kids could commute to university and get better jobs and come home.”
As a student in Salford, Roxann was well accustomed to using public transport for getting around the city.
But nearer her hometown of Huddersfield, transport links are far more limited, and services more unreliable.
“I think we need investment in transport as often public transport in smaller cities can be very underdeveloped compared to most bigger cities down South,” she said.
“I think it would be great if money was invested into public transport in smaller Northern cities, to encourage people to get around by bus and train.”
Hospitality consultant Bill, from Cumbria, believes more needs to be done to deliver on the decarbonisation agenda when considering transport investment.
“A carefully thought out plan is required in the Lake District,” he said.
“To take into account climate change requirements and sustainability concerns, and to ensure that the ever-increasing numbers of visitors can get to the places they want without damage to the environment or landscape.”
Freelance designer Lewis is based in Manchester, and often opted for cycling when commuting into the city.
He said improved air quality and safety on the roads is “fundamental” to him.
“I’d hope any investment in road infrastructure puts pedestrians and cyclists first, particularly to help those that are less confident or starting out on two wheels,” he said.
“I would also like to see improved cycle/rail integration, to make out of town green spaces more accessible.
“Currently there simply isn’t enough bike storage on trains, taking a family with bikes is just not viable.”