Greater Manchester is set to introduce a night bus service aiming to revamp transport connectivity.
- The service, part of the Bee Network, starts on September 1 on the V1 and 36 routes.
- Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, highlights the transport changes to support the night-time economy.
- The service aims to connect key areas like Leigh, Bolton, and Salford, supporting workers and students.
- Safety measures are being enhanced with the deployment of Travelsafe Support and Enforcement Officers.
A night bus service in parts of Greater Manchester will begin as a 24-hour transport pilot from September 1. The Bee Network aims to bolster the region’s night-time economy, providing vital support for workers in hospitality, healthcare, and logistics. Services will run on the V1 and 36 routes, connecting Manchester with Leigh and Bolton via Salford. This initiative follows the Bee Network’s recent local takeover of these routes, marking the first local control in nearly 40 years.
The pilot promises hourly services, ensuring 24-hour connectivity for approximately 135,000 residents living within a five-minute walk from the V1 and 36 routes. This project is driven by the efforts of Sacha Lord, Night Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester. Mayor Andy Burnham expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Better transport at night is something I know people have been crying out for.” He also emphasized the importance of transport infrastructure in unlocking Greater Manchester’s potential for growth.
The V1 and 36 routes were specifically chosen for their proximity to key employment sites within the night-time economy, such as hotels, bars, hospitals, and distribution centres. These areas also have high numbers of people who are less likely to own a car and more reliant on public transport, including students. The night-time economy is a significant part of Greater Manchester’s overall economic landscape, with 358,000 people, or 33% of the workforce, engaged in jobs active at night.
Sacha Lord has long advocated for extended night transport services, stating, “It’s not fair that night workers should face more expensive transport options simply because of the hours they work.” He collaborated with the Mayor, the Transport Commissioner, TfGM, and the Bee Network operators to launch this pilot. The goal is to offer equal transport opportunities to all workers, regardless of their working hours.
Safety is a top priority for this new service. The Bee Network has already deployed a team of Travelsafe Support and Enforcement Officers to assist customers. Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, added that potential further actions are being explored to enhance safety and reduce crime and antisocial behaviour on public transport. Unite the Union’s Regional Officer, Colin Hayden, highlighted the safety concerns of night workers, particularly women, stating that this pilot could provide a safer travel option for them.
The Greater Manchester night bus pilot marks a significant step towards improving 24-hour transport connectivity and safety.