Andy Burnham’s transport tsar emphasizes bus lanes for Bee Network punctuality and increased ridership.
Vernon Everitt is proud of the Bee Network launch. Public control of buses started two months ago. It is the first time since the 1980s.
Soon, you can tap for bus and tram fares. Daily fare caps will also be in place. Rail joins Bee Network by 2028. Eight commuter lines will use ‘pay as you go’.
Everitt spoke at a Manchester transport event. He says the Bee Network is doing well so far. Passenger numbers, fares, and punctuality are up. He admitted Manchester lags behind London.
Everitt said that usage, income and punctuality increased. He wants even more success with better punctuality. Bus lanes are needed on roads. They help improve things.
Adding rail aims to bring 1.3 million more users. He wants less driving in Manchester. A 50-50 split is the goal. This is between cars and other methods. Public transport, walking, and cycling at 40% currently.
He said bus color is unimportant. Integrated public transport is more important. They want easy active travel for everyone.