A record number of bus journeys have been named since buses in Bolton were taken under public control under the launch of the historic Bee Network. The network was launched a year ago this week under ground-breaking plans put forward by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who said he is pleased with the progress made to improve the buses - stating it is more reliable. It was announced on the year to the day of the Bee Network launch that 58 million journeys have been made in Bolton , Wigan and parts of Salford and Bury.
The number of people travelling has increased by five per cent, equating to nearly seven million more journeys. Bolton buses were among the first in Greater Manchester to be brought back under public control in almost 40 years. Buses are described as the cornerstone of the Bee Network – accounting for around 75 per cent of all public transport trips – and bus franchising was said to play a key role in delivering the vision for a fully integrated public and active travel network, linking with Metrolink and walking, cycling and wheeling routes.
Three weeks ago, busses running 24/7 from Bolton to Greater Manchester were trialled for an hourly “night service” as part of a year-long pilot and placing 135,000 passengers within a five-minute walking distance from a night bus stop. (Image: TfGM) Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: “One year ago today we made history as the first area to start to bring our buses back under local control for the fir.