The award-winning matchday bus network for Manchester City supporrters is set to grow after proving a big hit with the Sky Blues faithful.
Transport for Greater Manchester, in partnership with Manchester City FC, launched the network in February last year, initially providing supporters with direct travel to the Etihad Stadium from 60 places across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and the High Peak.
Such has been its popularity over the last 12 months, several routes on the network are now at capacity – with nearly 20 new stops also having been added to the network during that time.
To cater for the growing level of demand, five extra buses will now be added to five of the busiest routes, while three more new stops will be added at the Trafford Centre, Horwich and Rochdale. This takes the total number of buses for weekend matchdays to 20 and the number of locations served to 82.
These changes have allowed the creation of five additional routes that will operate for weekend fixtures only (there is currently sufficient capacity for midweek games). The extended network will be in place for the Newcastle game on Saturday (15 February) and continue for all men’s weekend games this season.
Regular feedback from fans has been used to shape the matchday network since its launch, demonstrating the responsiveness and accountability of services under a locally controlled network.
Steve Gilholme, Head of Service Delivery said: “The Manchester City Matchday Bus Network has proven a real hit with City fans and is a great example of what we’re trying to achieve with the Bee Network – demonstrating that if you provide people with reliable, affordable and safe public transport options they will use them.
“I am pleased we’re growing the weekend matchday network, with more buses on the busiest routes, new stops added by fans’ request at Rochdale, Horwich and the Trafford Centre.
“After deservedly picking up a gong at last year’s Modeshift Awards, the matchday network is on a winning streak and I am confident we will see it go from strength-to-strength, not just this season but also into the future.”
Pete Bradshaw, Manchester City’s Director of Sustainability said: “We are delighted to be expanding our award-winning Matchday Bus Network to help even more fans travel to and from the Etihad Stadium.
The latest additions, driven by substantial demand on certain routes, demonstrate that the service is working, and has created an enjoyable and efficient travel option for thousands of fans on a matchday.”
Pic: 4kclips/Dreamstime.com
