Greater Manchester Bus Services Back in the Hands of the People

Greater Manchester has taken a bold step in public transport, completing the historic re-regulation of its bus network. This milestone, the first in England in 40 years, represents a seismic shift in how the city-region connects its communities, promotes sustainability and drives economic growth. The transformation is part of the Bee Network, an ambitious vision for a fully integrated, “London-style” public transport system by 2025.

Two yellow double-decker buses are parked inside a large garage. The bus in front displays Bee Network and Free Bus in its LED sign. The surroundings include industrial lighting and stacks of materials.

Transport for Greater Manchester

At the heart of this project is a determination to reverse decades of decline. Over 577 routes and 1,600 buses, serving more than 160 million annual trips, are now under local control, making them accountable to the people and businesses of Greater Manchester. The re-regulation was delivered on time and on budget, creating a template for other regions to follow. The benefits have been immediate and far-reaching.

Improved Connections and Reliability

The Bee Network’s first phase introduced 75 new or adjusted routes, night bus services and more frequent operations. Punctuality has surged, with over 80% of buses in the first franchised areas running on time, up from around 69%. Reliability in areas such as Oldham, Rochdale and Salford has also markedly improved.

Two yellow double-decker buses at a bus station. The bus on the left displays route 84 to Uppermill, and the bus on the right displays route 59 to Manchester. The ground is wet, suggesting recent rain. Trees and lampposts are visible in the background.

Transport for Greater Manchester

This focus on reliability has been accompanied by significant fleet upgrades. By March 2025, more than half of the Bee Network’s buses will be new, with 75% less than four years old—a dramatic improvement from an average fleet age of 9.5 years in 2019. Furthermore, the network is embracing green technology, with electric buses set to comprise 25% of the fleet by April 2025.

Affordable Fares and Accessibility

Passengers have already felt the financial benefits. Average ticket costs have fallen by 15% under the £2 fare cap, which will remain in place throughout 2025. A new fare structure includes ‘hopper’ tickets, reduced weekly and monthly options and annual ticket instalments via credit unions. Starting in March 2025, contactless capping will ensure passengers pay the best daily or weekly fare across both bus and tram networks.

Five people stand outside a building with a glass door. A yellow poster promoting bus tickets and credit union services is displayed on the window behind them. The group is smiling, and the scene appears to be in an urban setting.

Transport for Greater Manchester

Economic Growth and Job Creation

The Bee Network has not only improved transport but has also generated hundreds of jobs in Greater Manchester and beyond. Contracts for franchised services and new buses have supported UK manufacturing, creating a ripple effect across the national economy. The initiative has also reduced the cost of running services by a third compared to the deregulated market, delivering a 5% increase in passengers and revenues exceeding forecasts.

A worker in a blue and yellow uniform is installing the back panel of a yellow Bee Network bus, inside a building. Another worker can be seen in the background. A caution sign with a bicycle icon is visible on the vehicle.

Transport for Greater Manchester

A Nationally Significant Moment

Mayor Andy Burnham hailed the Bee Network as a game-changer:

“This is an historic moment for Greater Manchester. From today, every community in Greater Manchester will be served by cheaper, cleaner and greener buses, run in a way that puts people before profit.

Greater Manchester is currently the growth success story of the UK, but we’ll only reach our full potential with a world-class public transport system. While this is a nationally significant moment, it’s by no means job done.”

A yellow double-decker bus with "I'm Electric" displayed on the front is parked inside a well-lit garage. The bus has Bee Network branding. Two other vehicles, including another bus, are visible in the background.

Transport for Greater Manchester

The re-regulation has already inspired other regions to consider regaining control of their bus networks. The government’s Bus Services Bill and £1 billion in national support aim to facilitate similar initiatives elsewhere.

Transport Commissioner Vernon Everitt emphasised the broader vision:

“City regions with high-quality public transport are more productive and deliver greater access to homes, jobs and education. The Bee Network integrates buses, trams and active travel, with plans to incorporate rail services by 2028.”

Active Travel and Sustainability

A cornerstone of Greater Manchester’s vision is achieving carbon neutrality by 2038. The city-region is working to encourage one million more sustainable journeys daily by 2040. Over 117km of walking and cycling routes have already been delivered, with ambitious plans to extend this network. The Starling Bank Bike scheme has clocked over one million rides, while “School Streets” initiatives aim to create safer, more sustainable routes for students.

People boarding a yellow bus at a station. A person in a red jacket with a black backpack enters, followed by others. A bus driver in a high-visibility vest is seen inside the bus. The brick building is visible in the background.

Transport for Greater Manchester

Active Travel Commissioner Dame Sarah Storey underlined the importance of connectivity:

“Tens of millions of car journeys in Greater Manchester are under 1km. Better cycling and walking routes, combined with public transport links, will help people make more sustainable travel choices.”

The Road Ahead

Phase two of the Bee Network is now underway, focusing on integrating eight commuter rail lines into the system by 2028. This includes delivering the first new train stations in over 20 years and significant upgrades to existing infrastructure. Contactless pay-as-you-go systems will further simplify travel, creating a seamless experience for passengers.

A yellow and black bus labeled 151 North Manchester travels on a road surrounded by greenery. The bus is central, with a blurred foreground on the left, likely a wall or structure. The sky is clear and blue.

Transport for Greater Manchester

Dr Maya Singer Hobbs from IPPR North highlighted the wider implications:

“The success of Greater Manchester’s Bee Network shows what can be achieved when local leaders are empowered to deliver change. This model offers a blueprint for revitalising bus networks across England.”

With a growing population and an £80 billion economy, Greater Manchester is poised to set new standards for public transport in the UK. The Bee Network’s integrated approach not only connects communities but also sets a powerful example for the future of sustainable urban mobility.

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