Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has unveiled a new map of the Bee Network’s high-frequency bus and tram services.
The map, released ahead of the introduction of integrated contactless payments, brings together the most frequent routes in one place for the first time.
The high-frequency routes—defined as those served by buses and trams at least every 12 minutes—carry more than half of all bus passengers in Greater Manchester. Nearly 44% of the population, over 1.2 million people, live within walking or wheeling distance of these services.
The introduction of contactless ‘tap and go’ payments across both bus and tram services, launching on 23 March, is expected to further simplify travel. This system will allow passengers to tap on at the start of their journey and automatically be charged the best available fare, capped at daily and weekly limits.
Mayor Andy Burnham said:In London, passengers often simply turn up to a Tube station or bus stop knowing that they’ll be on board within minutes. Such a frequent and flexible public transport system shouldn’t be exclusive to the capital – and we promised Greater Manchester we’d deliver it with the Bee Network.
To make that system a reality we needed to do two main things. Firstly, take back control of local buses, allowing us to set fares, routes and service frequencies to better connect our communities. We did that in January, becoming the first region in the UK to do so in 40 years.
Next, we’re launching tap and go across bus and tram, giving people the freedom to travel in a way that works for them. One of the biggest changes we’ve introduced in Greater Manchester, it will bring us more in line with London and make public transport more convenient, flexible and affordable than it’s ever been before.
Combine these steps with a joined-up network of high frequency bus and tram routes – within easy reach of over a million of our residents – and we’ve made major strides toward our public transport promise. Our call to the people of Greater Manchester is now to get on board and back the Bee Network so we can continue to go from strength to strength.
There are currently 41 high-frequency bus routes across Greater Manchester. Despite making up only 7% of Bee Network services, these routes account for over half of all bus journeys. The 192, 143, and 43 services alone represent 10% of all bus travel, demonstrating the demand for frequent services.
Meanwhile, Metrolink trams operate at a standard frequency of every 12 minutes on weekdays, with increased frequency on key routes, including services to the city centre, Altrincham, Bury, and Salford Quays. At peak times, tram services at Deansgate-Castlefield operate at intervals as short as 45 seconds, contributing to Metrolink’s position as the UK’s largest light-rail network.
The new high-frequency map is part of a broader strategy to expand and improve public transport across Greater Manchester. Ongoing network reviews will incorporate passenger feedback to enhance services, while further investment in Metrolink may extend the tram network to new areas.
By improving frequency, integrating payment systems, and responding to community needs, Greater Manchester is working towards a more accessible and efficient public transport system.
