Greater Manchester is undergoing a transportation revolution with the Bee Network, an ambitious initiative designed to create an integrated, reliable and affordable public transport system. With locally controlled buses outperforming commercial networks, cheaper fares on the horizon, and significant investments in active travel infrastructure, the Bee Network aims to connect the city-region like never before. We explore the latest developments and future plans for Greater Manchester's transport and active travel landscape.
 |
| Tom Harrison (Bus Ambassador) |
The Bee Network's bus services, launched in Wigan, Bolton and parts of Bury, Salford and Manchester, have shown improvements since coming under local control in September last year. Over the past six months, passenger numbers have increased by 5%, with over 849,000 journeys recorded in the week ending 18th May – the highest weekly patronage since franchising began.
Service reliability has also seen a significant boost. From 28th April to 23rd June, over 80% of bus services ran on time, compared to just 68.7% during the same period the previous year. This improvement has made public buses a more attractive option for residents, further supporting Greater Manchester's goal of reducing car dependency.
The Bee Network's vision extends beyond buses, aiming to integrate trains and trams into a seamless travel system by 2028. Eight key train routes are set to join the network, enhancing connectivity across the city-region. These routes include Rochdale stopping services, Ashton-under-Lyne and Stalybridge, and services extending to Wigan and Southport, among others.
The Metrolink tram system is also experiencing unprecedented growth, with a 20% increase in usage over the past year. May saw the highest monthly ridership in Metrolink's 32-year history, underscoring the growing preference for tram travel among residents.
A cornerstone of the Bee Network is its commitment to active travel. Greater Manchester is on track to develop the country's largest active travel network, aiming to place 95% of residents within 400 meters of high-quality walking, wheeling and cycling routes. So far, around 115 km of this network has been delivered.
The Starling Bank bike hire scheme is another critical component, with over 810,000 rides recorded since its launch. This scheme's potential expansion will further integrate cycling with public transport, making it a convenient choice for shorter journeys.
Recent funding from Active Travel England includes £3 million to support the development of active travel initiatives such as bike libraries and School Streets, which aim to make walking, wheeling, or cycling to school safer and more accessible. An additional £3.8 million will be used to improve crossings and junctions across the city-region.
The success of the Bee Network is driven by strong leadership from Greater Manchester's Mayor, Andy Burnham, and the re-appointed Transport and Active Travel Commissioners, Vernon Everitt and Dame Sarah Storey. These experienced leaders are dedicated to transforming public transport and active travel, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous city-region.
Mayor Andy Burnham emphasises the importance of a safe, affordable and reliable transport system. He highlights the Bee Network's role in supporting Greater Manchester's ambitious plans for housing, education, and skills development, and its potential to connect the city-region with other parts of the north.
Transport Commissioner Vernon Everitt is focused on delivering an integrated transport network that includes Metrolink, buses, trains, and active travel, all linked by simple and affordable fares. He outlines plans for bringing eight local train lines into the Bee Network by 2028, enhancing connectivity and driving economic growth.
Active Travel Commissioner Dame Sarah Storey is dedicated to making walking, wheeling, and cycling the natural choice for short journeys. Her top priorities include rolling out high-quality active travel infrastructure and establishing 100 new School Streets by 2028.
Affordability is a key aspect of the Bee Network. Starting in January 2025, bus fares will be reduced, with unlimited travel on Bee Network buses costing £20 for seven days for adults and £10 for children. Additionally, a new ‘hopper’ fare will allow unlimited bus travel within one hour for the price of a single ticket.
The Bee Network also aims to address inequalities by working with local Credit Unions to offer discounted annual bus tickets through loans, ensuring that travel remains affordable for all residents.
Greater Manchester is the fastest-growing city-region in the country, with plans for 280,000 new residents, 175,000 new homes, and 100,000 new jobs. To support this growth, the Bee Network is developing a new rapid transit strategy, which includes proposals for new tram and tram-train lines, faster bus routes, and even an underground service.
Key priorities for expanding the rapid transit system include:
These plans aim to ensure that the Bee Network can accommodate future growth, support economic development, and help Greater Manchester achieve its commitment to be carbon neutral by 2038.
Greater Manchester's Bee Network represents a bold vision for the future of public transport and active travel. With locally controlled buses already outperforming commercial networks, significant investments in walking, wheeling, and cycling infrastructure, and plans for an integrated rapid transit system, the city-region is well on its way to becoming a model of sustainable and connected urban living.
The continued leadership of Mayor Andy Burnham, Vernon Everitt and Dame Sarah Storey will be crucial in realising this transformative vision, ensuring that Greater Manchester thrives as a healthier, more prosperous and environmentally friendly city-region.
Comments
Post a Comment