Nottingham passengers had mixed views after calls were made to reintroduce face masks on trams after councillors called for signs to be put up. Concerns have been raised about the rise in coronavirus cases across the city and that things are likely to get worse during the winter period.
Between June 27 and July 3, there were 136 people admitted to Nottingham’s hospitals with coronavirus, which is an increase of 86.3 percent compared to the previous seven days.
Councillors met at Loxley House on Tuesday, July 12, to discuss some of their concerns with NET bosses. Councillor Adele Williams, portfolio holder for finance at the city council, was wearing a mask in the meeting and described the importance of encouraging people to wear them on public transport.
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“I think it is likely as we move into the flu season, we are expecting a resurgence,” said the Labour councillor. “Covid rates are pretty high and I do not think it will be long before Public Health is promoting face masks on public transport. Not just for individual safety and protecting the NHS but protecting the infrastructure of the city.
“My strong view, supported by evidence, is wearing face coverings on public transport is a low hassle way of preventing transmission and I would like to see the signage still there.” Cllr Sam Gardiner also said he would like signage to be reintroduced across the network.
People in Nottingham expressed mixed opinions about the reintroduction of signs. Margaret Forster, 71, said: “It’s a shame that it may have to come back, but if it does I’ll definitely be following the guidelines and rules. It’s mainly to protect others, so it’s a nice thing to do and helps other people on the tram feel safe.”
Patrick Hill, 21, added: “It would be annoying to have to bring masks back, especially when there’s always people on the trams who ignore the rules and don’t wear masks.” Drew Kidd, 23, said: “I thought the days of masks were behind us, but if they are needed again, I’ll follow the rules. I would just hope that other people would be willing to wear masks as well.”
Trevor Stocker, Head of Operations at Nottingham Trams, told the committee that signage changed throughout the pandemic, but it had “weaned off”. “That’s not to say it should stay that way,” he said. “We will review that accordingly with Public Health, but I take your point.”
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