Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has arranged emergency cover for several bus routes set to be withdrawn in Manchester, Trafford, Tameside and Stockport.
TfGM was informed yesterday by the owner of Little Gem that they plan to stop running contracted bus services, with the last day of operation being today Saturday 22 April.
The operator currently runs several school and local bus services.
In arranging emergency cover, priority was given to school services and those routes where passengers have fewer travel options.
Cover has been found for school bus services 719 and 761 (Barlow High and St Ambrose)and 773 (Altrincham College) from Monday, with cover for 755 (Altrincham Boys’ Grammarand Loreto), 758 (Altrincham Girls & Boys Grammar and Loreto Grammar), 760 (Altrincham Girls Grammar / Loreto Grammar), 774 (Altrincham College), 789 (Blessed Thomas), and 795(Urmston Grammar / Wellacre / Flixton Girls’ School) starting on Tuesday. Cover has also been found for the 336, 337 and 389 bus services.
Currently no emergency cover has been found for general bus services 44, 84, 217, 260, 261,262, 280, 288 and 375. TfGM is tendering all Little Gem services, with a view to new contracts starting on Tuesday 2 May.
Further information can be found on TfGM’s dedicated customer information page on the website.
TfGM’s Deputy Director of Bus, Alison Chew, said: “I would like to thank those operators who have been able to provide emergency cover to ensure as many people as possible – in particular young people – are not impacted by these service withdrawals, which we were only informed about this morning.
“Our team has prioritised school bus services and those where passengers have limited alternatives but unfortunately, due to the lack of notice and availability of other buses and drivers, we’ve not been able to cover them all.
“We will continue to work with operators to find a more permanent solution and will of course keep people informed of any changes.
“I’d encourage passengers who use these services to plan their journeys in advance and check our website and social media channels for the latest information and advice.”
