The Bee Network bus changes hoping to boost Manchester’s night time economy

Big changes are coming to the Bee Network buses, which might just benefit us all.

Written by Thom Bamford
Last updated 2 months ago
City of Manchester, Nightlife, Public Transport

Changes are coming to the Bee Network, with night buses expected to be rolled out in Greater Manchester if a trial period is successful.

The Bee network is set to roll out in Oldham, Rochdale, Bury and Manchester in one month.

Andy Burnham has revealed information about the next phase; with the long-term plan to join bus, tram and train services with one London style transport network.

Bee Network bus services will be planned to link up with Metrolink, local rail and the cycling and walking network.

Rail services will join the network in 2030.

The Bee Network launch

Night buses — Andy Burnham meets Bee Network staff

To much acclaim and excitement, The Bee Network was launched across Greater Manchester last September – meaning Manchester now has a publically controlled bus service for the first time since the 80s.

All Greater Manchester buses will be part of the Bee Network by January 2025. And TGFM is on track to bring local train services aboard by 2030.

The first phase saw 50 new electric buses launched in Bolton, Wigan and parts of Salford and Bury.

Night buses in Greater Manchester

Night buses are set to arrive too, it has been confirmed by Transport for Greater Manchester bosses.

Currently, the team are finalising a trial period to see how it goes.

If it goes well, it’s expected to be rolled out across Greater Manchester.

Night buses for Wigan and Bolton?

As things stand, there are currently some night buses in South Manchester, but TFGM is hoping to roll them out as far North as Wigan and Bolton; along with Bury, Manchester and Salford.

The team at TFGM are hoping this will provide a boost to the nighttime economy in Manchester, providing a safe way for people to stay out longer and get home later.

You can find out more on the Bee Network’s website here

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