Further 67 low-emission buses join Bee Network fleet

An additional 67 low-emission buses have been added to the Bee Network fleet as Greater Manchester continues to take back control of its public transport system.

Under the city-region’s franchising arrangement, which is set to expand to more boroughs on 24th March and reach Stockport by January 2025, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) can define the types of buses operators run on Bee Network services as part of moves to decarbonise public transport.

The latest 67 state-of-the-art low-emission buses will take to the roads on routes in Bolton and Wigan on services operated for TfGM by Diamond. 50 new Zero Emission Buses were introduced on the network in September, and a further 50 will be introduced in the coming months.

The new single deck vehicles have been built by manufacturer Alexander Dennis to Bee Network standards, and include improved accessibility features, including two spaces for wheelchair users and real-time audiovisual passenger information. Other benefits include air-conditioning and USB chargers, and a brand-new radio system to enable operators to communicate with drivers. Buses will go into service on routes that had been previously less prioritised for investment under privatisation.

Transport Commissioner, Vernon Everitt – who visited Diamond’s depot in Eccles to mark the buses arrival, alongside representatives from Diamond and manufacturer Alexander Dennis – said:

“Building the Bee Network is about delivering benefits to bus passengers across Greater Manchester. Key to that is the provision of these modern, accessible and environmentally friendly buses on routes providing vital access to public services and leisure facilities for local communities in Bolton and Wigan. And all of them have been built in the UK. It’s great to see them about to take to the road.”

Rotala Chief Executive, Simon Dunn, said:

“Following the award of franchises by Transport for Greater Manchester, Alexander Dennis offered us the right combination of versatile vehicles and production capabilities for these 67 single deck buses. Their entry into service this year has given us a state-of-the-art low emission fleet for our Diamond North West operations.”

Yellow Bee Network buses will take to the roads in Oldham, Rochdale and parts of Bury, Salford and north Manchester on Sunday 24th March, bringing a further 136 of the city-region’s bus routes under public control. The remaining areas of Greater Manchester, including Stockport, will be brought into the network by January 2025, but are already benefiting from cheaper fares and integrated AnyBus + Tram tickets. March will also see Stockport bus passengers begin using the town centre’s new transport interchange, which will open on 17th March.

Pictured: Representatives from Alexander Dennis, Rotala, TfGM’s bus team and Transport Commissioner Vernon Everitt with the 67 new low-emission buses at Diamond’s depot in Eccles.