A new online business portal will support Greater Manchester firms in encouraging their workforce and customers to get on board with public transport and walking, cycling and wheeling to help shape the future of the region’s integrated Bee Network.
The interactive portal, launched by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) today, will act as a ‘one stop shop’ providing guidance for businesses looking to make affordable and sustainable travel choices and support the wider regional economy.
With the early introduction of new lower capped fares, it’s never been more cost-effective people to hop on the bus to and from work. There are also flexible ticket offers on Metrolink, and the options to walk, cycle or wheel to work are improving all the time.
By giving people the tools needed to rethink their journeys to and from work, businesses can play a crucial role in helping Greater Manchester build towards its ambitious target of becoming carbon neutral by 2038.
With a year to go until the formal launch of the Bee Network, Greater Manchester’s vision for a fully-integrated transport system, the launch of the portal also coincides with the start of the Get On Board campaign, which will promote public transport and active travel in Greater Manchester.
New single journey bus fares, capped at £2 for adults and £1 for children, and a lower £5 any bus all day ticket, were introduced earlier this month – and a year ahead of schedule – to help people during the cost-of-living crisis.
The first franchised bus services will come into service in September 2023, when the bus network begins to come under the control of the Mayor and Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
Vernon Everitt, Greater Manchester’s Transport Commissioner, said: “The integrated Bee Network will help drive economic growth across our city-region, creating new jobs, housing and opportunity for all.
“Encouraging affordable sustainable travel for employees, customers and visitors will provide the platform to boost productivity and improve people’s health and wellbeing across the region. It also makes a huge contribution towards protecting the environment and helping to meet Greater Manchester’s carbon reduction targets.
