The Bee Network is a success in south Manchester and the Government is building on the integration of our bus, tram and train networks with £2.5bn in new funding. Last month the Chancellor announced that Greater Manchester will benefit from a huge investment in local transport, as part of the biggest ever investment in local transport infrastructure in city regions.  This is game-changing investment for Greater Manchester and a huge vote of confidence in the Bee Network model – with a wider aim to improve connectivity and improve prosperity across every part of the country.

The £2.5bn funding will enable Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to transform and grow the Metrolink tram network, with new tram stops in Bury, Manchester and Oldham and  – most importantly for our area – a Metrolink extension from Didsbury to Stockport. It will also help deliver a fully electric Bee Network, with zero emission public transport network across bikes, bus and tram by 2030, including purchase of 1,000 new electric buses. And major infrastructure projects will unlock new homes, jobs and better connect communities.

The Government is delivering on its promise to back local leadership and transform public transport in our communities. With integrated ticketing, better connections, new tram lines and cleaner electric vehicles, the investment will mean quicker, greener journeys for residents across south Manchester. 

I know how important affordable, reliable, and green travel is to residents in south Manchester, and we have a lot to look forward to, with improved transport helping to grow our local economy, and keeping us connected.