New 24/7 night bus service officially launches in Greater Manchester

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Yellow Bee Network buses all lined up at dusk / Credit: TfGM

It’s been a long time coming, but Greater Manchester’s new 24/7 night bus service has now officially launched.

As the Bee Network – which is Greater Manchester’s newly-launched integrated transport network – looks to provide much-needed further support to the region’s night time economy and all of those who work within it, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has confirmed that the 24-hour transport pilot officially kicked off from yesterday (1 September).

Set to run for a full year, after plans for it were first revealed back in February, the trial will run on the V1 and the 36 to help connect Manchester with Leigh and Bolton, via Salford, as these were the first areas to be taken over by the Bee Network.

Services will run at least every hour, 24-hours a day, seven days a week – including on most bank holidays too.

The V1 and 36 have been chosen, not just because they provide bus services to the first Bee Network areas, but also 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 who are less likely to own a car, and therefore, are more-likely to use public transport.

The night buses will also use the same capped bus fares that were first introduced in 2022 to provide “a simplified ticket offer” that is consistent with services across the region.

Andy Burnham says the Greater Manchester public has been “crying out” for this new service.

Mayor Andy Burnham stood in front of a new 24/7 Bee Network night bus / Credit: TfGM

“Ensuring that everyone working in our night time economy can access safe, reliable, around-the-clock public transport is hugely important as our thriving region continues to grow,” the Greater Manchester Mayor explained.

“It was clear to us that Greater Manchester can only realise its potential as a catalyst for growth if we have the right infrastructure to get people to and from employment centres whatever the time, day or night.

“Night buses will provide a lifeline to those working in this vitally important sector, where shifts can go on into the night and early morning when public transport options are scarce and personal safety may be a concern.

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“I am delighted that tens of thousands of people in Greater Manchester will now be able to benefit from this pilot.”

Featured Image – TfGM