Around 400,000 older and disabled people in Greater Manchester will benefit from round-the-clock bus travel as part of a new pilot, better connecting them to healthcare, leisure and retail opportunities.
Currently those with a TfGM-issued concessionary travel pass have free bus travel between 9.30am and midnight during the week and all day on weekends and public holidays. However, trom Friday 1 August the pre-9.30am travel restriction will be lifted on a trial basis for a month on all buses.
As well as free early morning bus travel, it will mean older and disabled people will be able to board the Bee Network’s night buses, all night, for free for the first time.
The plans were announced by Mayor Andy Burnham as part of the launch of the Greater Manchester Strategy (GMS), the region’s vision for the next decade to grow the local economy and ensure everyone can live well.
Included in the GMS is a pledge to keep the cost of travel as low as possible, improving connections and making it easier for people to use the Bee Network to get around.
Leader of Oldham Council, Cllr Arooj Shah said:
“This is a really welcome move that will make a huge difference to the lives of thousands of older and disabled people in Oldham and across Greater Manchester. Removing early morning travel restrictions will help residents get to medical appointments and take part in community life without any unnecessary barriers.
“It’s a simple change that helps unlock opportunity and tackle inequality. I’m proud that Oldham is part of a Bee Network that puts people first.”
The trial is being held to look at the impact of lifting the 9.30am restriction on peak bus services and those shortly after 9.30am. At the conclusion of the trial, the evidence gathered during it, including analysing passenger feedback, patronage and pass usage, will be assessed before a decision is made on whether the move can be made permanent.
Erica Woods, co-chair, GM Older People’s Equality Panel said:
“This is a great result for older residents and we can’t wait to make the most of it. It’s often older people with financial challenges that rely on buses and currently they can’t get to essential health appointments, meaning that treatment is delayed or they have to use taxis that they can ill-afford. And it’s not just older people that will benefit – we’re shoppers, we’re carers, we’re volunteers. This pilot will really help us to unleash our potential.”
(Pic: TfGM)
