Drivers urged to Get On Board in TfGM Spring campaign

Greater Manchester residents are being urged to leave the car at home and take advantage of cheaper bus fares and improved walking and cycling infrastructure.

Amid growing concerns about the cost-of-living crisis and the impact of car journeys on the environment, thousands of people every day across the region are already taking advantage of lower bus fares, Metrolink’s flexible travel options or the city-region’s expanding active travel network.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) are sharing the stories of city-region residents who have taken advantage of improvements to public and active transport as part of its Spring ‘Get On Board’ campaign. TfGM is highlighting stories that showcase how switching the car to buses, trams or choosing to walk, cycle or wheel for short journeys can help reduce both the financial and environmental costs of getting from A to B.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said:

“Since September we have been encouraging people to get on board with public transport by introducing lower, capped bus fares and highlighting flexible ways to travel by Metrolink and active travel.

“Not only can people save money on vehicle fuel and parking, but they can also reduce time spent in traffic jams, help clean up our air and get some exercise – which of course is great for your overall health and wellbeing. 

“But people don’t need to take my word for it – it is clear from our residents’ stories just how wide-ranging the benefits are.

“Public transport is at its best when it’s accessible to everyone, and we are delivering this through the Bee Network; an integrated and affordable network that supports seamless end-to-end-journeys across the city-region.” 

As part of the Get on Board campaign, businesses are receiving support to encourage their workforce and customers to use public transport and active travel to help shape the future of the Bee Network.

TfGM’s interactive online business portal acts as a ‘one stop shop’ for firms looking to make affordable and sustainable travel choices, support the wider economy, and help Greater Manchester towards its ambitious target of becoming carbon neutral by 2038.

Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said:

“The integrated Bee Network will help drive economic growth across our city-region, creating new jobs, housing and opportunity for all.

“Businesses play a vital role in how we shape the future of the Bee Network. By encouraging affordable and sustainable travel for staff and customers, businesses can help boost productivity and improve people’s health and wellbeing, while also helping reduce carbon emissions.

“Through the business portal, TfGM is changing how it engages with businesses, and there’s never been a better time for firms to learn more about the best value money tickets and sustainable transport choices.”

Pictured: NHS intensive care nurse, Vijish, from Swinton, is among the Greater Manchester residents taking advantage of capped £2 single bus fares who features in TfGM’s Get On Board campaign.