Greater Manchester has made headlines for officially returning all bus services to public control as of January 6, 2025, marking the first such move in England in 40 years. This transition is central to the Bee Network, which aims to create an integrated public transport system throughout the region. Mayor Andy Burnham heralded the day as 'momentous,' stating, 'We have taken control today.'
The re-regulation of bus services means significant improvements to connectivity, affordability, and reliability for residents who depend on public transport. The initiative encompasses 577 bus routes, utilizing 1,600 vehicles to serve over 160 million annual passengers. Under this plan, nearly 75 routes will now see changes to offer more frequent and reliable services, helping to reverse decades of decline experienced under private operations.
Completed on time and budget, this landmark endeavor is the culmination of phased efforts beginning back in 2023, encapsulating local accountability. Enhanced service reliability has already seen punctuality metrics improve from about 69% to over 80%. 'It’s more on time now, and it’s cleaner,' expressed local commuter Stacey Rowe, reflecting the sentiments of many who have begun to find the adjustments favorable.
The era of privatization is fading as the Bee Network embraces modernity, with more than half of the bus fleet expected to be newly updated by March 2025; 25% of the buses will be electric, aiming to reduce emissions and promote sustainability. According to the report by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), the simplified fare structure has introduced capped single journeys at £2, reduced ticket prices, and new options like the 'hopper' fare to facilitate connections more affordably.
The initiative is not just about buses; it's fundamentally linked to Greater Manchester’s goals of achieving carbon neutrality by 2038. The Bee Network’s efforts to encourage public transport usage, cycling, and walking are intertwined with its plans to realize the UK’s largest cycling and walking network, with over 117 km already delivered.
Greater Manchester’s Mayor acknowledged the community’s growth. 'We will only be able to reach our full potential and make life easier for all our residents with a world-class public transport system,' Burnham noted. The excitement around the changes is palpable; Burnham emphasized upcoming expansions, including the integration of eight commuter rail lines by 2028 to build on the successes of phase one.
Reflecting on these changes, local operators are already bidding farewell to decades of service as companies like Stotts Tours concluded their routes. 'Thank you to each and every one of you for your kind words and photos,' the company remarked, bidding goodbye as they exit the scene to make room for the new network. Oldham residents have reported mixed feelings, with some noting improvements, but others cautious due to previous experiences with service reliability.
Michelle Bond, who utilizes the services daily, highlighted existing issues with disabled rides, wanting to change the restriction preventing early morning free travel for those with special passes. Despite such concerns, she—and many others—are excited about the new changes. 'I like the Bee Network buses because the new ones’ disabled seats have more room. They are nicer and more accessible,' she stated.
While local sentiment remains largely positive, there are warnings from residents about inconsistency, as some reported missed buses during peak usage times. An elderly passenger mentioned having to 'chance' icy walks due to the non-arrival of the 103 bus from Benchill. Nevertheless, he expressed hope about the network’s future: 'I think it’s a good idea. We will have to wait and see if it’s as good as promised.'
The initiative has already shown initial results with passenger numbers up by 5% over the past year. The completion of bus franchising signals the end of phase one of the Bee Network, but as officials shift focus to the integration of the rail lines, the community is left eagerly anticipating the next chapter of transformation. This newly formed transport system not only boasts improved service quality but also champions economic and environmental well-being, providing jobs and contributing to local development.
'It’s important for us to work hard to bring back safe, affordable, and accessible services you can rely on,' emphasized TfGM—a statement reinforcing their dedication as public agents. The public control transition is not merely tied to buses but is seen as setting the stage for how local transport can evolve sustainably across Greater Manchester and beyond. With plans for the rail network set to progress, the future of public transportation shows promise for continued enhancement and connectivity.