TfGm is introducing new Bee Network night buses on two key corridors in Greater Manchester
A 24-hour transport pilot is set to get underway in parts of Greater Manchester from the start of September as the Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) Bee Network looks to support the region’s night-time economy and workers.
Night buses will run on routes V1 and 36, connecting Manchester with Leigh and Bolton via Salford, areas which were among the first to become part of the Bee Network. The trial will see services run at least every hour, providing 24-hour connectivity for the approximately 135,000 people living within 400m (or a five minute walk) from the two routes.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “I’m really excited by Greater Manchester’s potential as an engine of growth – but it will only be fully realised if we have the transport infrastructure in place to get people to and from our thriving employment centres whatever the time of day or night. Better transport at night is something I know people have been crying out for, and I must thank Sacha Lord, who has been instrumental in getting us to the point where we can confirm the first night Bee Network services are now just a few weeks away.
“The Bee Network allows us to develop the services that best serve people and businesses across our city region. Transport should never be a barrier to opportunity, and this is a step towards improving things for people who work – or want to work – in our hospitals, care homes, clubs, bars, distribution centres or theatres.”
Night economy
TfGM says that the V1 and 36 have been chosen due to their proximity to key night-time economy employment sites such has hotels, bars and clubs, hospitals and distribution centres. They also serve areas with high numbers of people less likely to own a car and more likely to use public transport, including students.
Around 358,000 people are believed to be employed within Greater Manchester’s night time economy, accounting for around 33% of the Greater Mancunian workforce.
Night Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester Sacha Lord added: “I have called for extensions to night transport services since I became the Night Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester. It’s not fair that night workers should face more expensive transport options simply because of the hours they work. We often think of transport as being an issue for customers at night, but I am delighted to have worked with the Mayor, the Transport Commissioner, TfGM and the Bee Network and its operators to be able to bring in such an important pilot that has parity and equality for all workers, no matter what time of day or night, at its heart.”
Safety
According to a survey of residents carried out in February, more than a quarter of respondents said a lack of public transport at night has prevented them accessing opportunities including work, night classes, socialising or accessing late-night healthcare services. To ensure safety, TfGM will provide a team of Travelsafe Support & Enforcement Officers (TSEOs).
Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, commented: “The safety of customers and staff will be of paramount importance on night bus services. A team of Travelsafe Support and Enforcement Officers has already been deployed on the Bee Network to provide a highly visible presence and this approach will be extended to support the night bus pilot.
“We are also examining the potential for further action in the coming months to continue to improve safety, and the perception of safety, across public transport and active travel as part of our zero tolerance towards crime and anti social behaviour.”
Nigel Featham, Managing Director at Bee Network franchise Go North West, said: “We’re excited to partner with TfGM on enhancing the Bee Network. 24-hour-a-day, seven-days-a-week services will be a real boost to shift workers and the night time economy. Our key focus at Go North West is, as always, ensuring a Bee Network on which people can depend, day or night, with reliable services and the highest safety standards.”
