Bus Transport revolution

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Andy Burnham, bus article for GM Poverty Action

Andy Burnham

Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, has announced a series of major steps to move Greater Manchester towards a London-style public transport system with London-level bus fares, including the announcement that under a franchised bus network adult single journeys would cost no more than £2, and child single journeys no more than £1.

The move will be the first step towards the Greater Manchester public being able to access a more affordable public transport network.

The Mayor is also expected to set out a revised timetable for the introduction of bus
franchising, which will see:

•  Regulated buses in Bolton and Wigan as well as parts of Salford and west Manchester from autumn 2023;

•  Bury, Rochdale, Oldham and areas of north Manchester to follow in Spring 2024

•  Stockport, Trafford, Tameside, South Manchester and remaining parts of Salford to run by end of 2024

Andy Burnham said: “We will make travelling by public transport more appealing, easier and, significantly, put our people before profits.”

Transformed bus services is a key pillar of the Bee Network vision, which aims to provide real public transport and active travel choices for all; promote sustainable travel behavioural change through integrated city-region planning; support the electrification of vehicles and public transport fleets; promotes levelling up through the provision of sustainable transport connectivity to key growth locations and the provision of affordable public transport options for all our communities.

Greater Manchester will have a new Transport Commissioner, with former Transport for London (TfL) Managing Director of Customers, Communication and Technology, Vernon Everitt, set to take a leading role in the delivery of the Bee Network.

The Mayor is also set to announce a new Active Travel Commissioner at today’s New Era event.

Vernon Everitt, the Mayor’s new Transport Commissioner, said: “It is a privilege to be given the responsibility to help write the next chapter of Greater Manchester’s ambitious and truly transformational transport story. The Bee Network vision sets out a compelling plan for better transport and I will bring all my experience to the table to ensure we deliver it.

“Our integrated transport network will unlock access to opportunity and public services, and drive reduced carbon emissions and improved wellbeing, benefitting everyone who lives, works or visits here. I look forward to working with the mayor, councils, transport operators and people across Greater Manchester to deliver a world class public transport system.”

More detail is available here.

 

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