Business Transport Advisory Council launched to advise TfGM

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has established a new Business Transport Advisory Council as part of efforts to engage with the city-region’s business community on the development of the Bee Network.

The Business Transport Advisory Council brings together firms from a wide variety of sectors, locations and sizes from across Greater Manchester to share their experiences and views, and that of employees and customers. Key topics the council will advise on include transport in the night time economy, and the importance of seamless transport integration to employees.

Co-chaired by Erin MacTague, of Salford media business Picture Shop, and Transport Commissioner Vernon Everitt, the council has 16 members and will produce an annual report with its findings and recommendations of its quarterly meetings.

Businesses in Stockport will be represented by three members: Phill Marples, Head of Sustainability at musicMagpie; Julian Lewis-Booth, Sales Director at catering sector supplier HG Stephensons; and Matthew Heath, Logistics Manager for Robinsons Brewery.

Co-Chair Erin MacTague said:

“As a co-chair of the Business Transport Advisory Council, I am thrilled to be part of this collaborative effort between TfGM and the business community.

“Our group, reflecting the diversity of businesses across Greater Manchester can help shape a transport system that not only meets the needs of our businesses today but also paves the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future for Greater Manchester.” 

Greater Manchester Transport Commissioner Vernon Everitt said:

“The productivity and success of businesses relies on efficient connectivity to enable staff to get to work, to move freight and produce and to attract investment to the region.

“I?am delighted that this new forum has been created with people drawn from a wide range of businesses across GM to challenge and advise me and TfGM on how transport should be improved to drive further growth in the regional economy.” 

TfGM’s Strategic Lead for Business Engagement Mark Thomas added:

“The Bee Network will be transformative for Greater Manchester and that means it will have a huge impact on the city region’s 110,000 businesses. We’re really proud that alongside our other communities, BTAC will help us stay connected to what matters to this vital part of the GM economy.

“I’d like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to the members for giving up their time to help Greater Manchester’s transport system develop in a way that works for everyone.”