Greater Manchester has introduced an integrated ‘tap and go’ contactless payment system across its Bee Network bus and tram services, simplifying travel for passengers.
The new system enables passengers to travel across buses and trams without purchasing a ticket in advance. By tapping on when boarding a bus or at tram stops, fares are automatically calculated, ensuring travellers pay the best value fare up to a capped daily or weekly amount.
This initiative aims to provide a straightforward, cost-effective option for commuters and visitors.
The launch represents a milestone in Greater Manchester’s ambition to develop a fully integrated public transport network. By 2028, the Bee Network is expected to also incorporate rail services, further enhancing connectivity across the region.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham said:We said we would deliver a London-style transport network for the people and businesses of Greater Manchester and that is exactly what we have done.
We have led the way with franchising and been able to bring buses together with the largest tram network in the country under one system that makes travelling across Greater Manchester easier, more affordable and more convenient than ever before.
Today is the culmination of years of hard work to deliver a public transport network befitting of Greater Manchester’s place as a world-leading city-region that works for our people, businesses and many millions of visitors.
With a more joined-up experience, where people can choose to leave their car at home and use public transport, there’s never been a better time to get on board the Bee Network and take advantage of the incredible value it has to offer.
To assist passengers with the transition, Bee Network staff and ambassadors will be available across the network during the first week of implementation. Passengers can still choose to pay with cash or purchase tickets through the Bee Network app if preferred.
Contactless payments are already widely used on Greater Manchester’s Metrolink system, with more than 16.5 million journeys made using the system last year. Nearly two-thirds of these transactions were completed using mobile devices such as smartphones and smartwatches.
In addition to daily and weekly fare caps, an annual bus and tram ticket has been introduced, offering unlimited travel across the Bee Network. Payment flexibility is also available, with customers able to spread costs weekly or monthly at no extra charge through a Credit Union loan.
