Train operators to accept bus passes during industrial action

With industrial action taking place from 19th to 22nd September affecting a number of Greater Manchester bus operators, rail companies Northern and TransPennine Express have agreed to accept some bus passes on their routes.

It means anyone with 7-day, 28-day, term or annual tickets, as well as those with Our Pass or a Care Leavers pass will be accepted on these services. Anyone with a concessionary (older or disabled persons pass) will also be able to travel on those services after 09:30 on weekdays and all day Saturday or Sunday, unless they already have tram/train travel added.

The arrangements will be in place this weekend across 10 Northern services running from outlying boroughs of Greater Manchester into Manchester city centre, particularly in Stockport and South Manchester where the majority of bus services will not run during strikes. Tickets will also be accepted on the TransPennine Express service running from Castleton to Manchester Piccadilly, as well from Greenfield to Manchester Piccadilly, with customers advised that a replacement bus will take them from Greenfield and Mossley stations to Stalybridge.

Staff at some Bee Network bus operators – First, Metroline, and Stagecoach – are intending to strike from Friday 19 to Monday 22 September (inclusive). The union Unite has also announced additional strike action from Tuesday 30 September to Thursday 2 October. Industrial action pertains to pay negotiations with operators, and is not a result of franchise arrangements as part of the Bee Network.

Danny Vaughan, TfGM’s Chief Network Officer, said:

“We’re doing all we can to keep Greater Manchester moving during this industrial action, and we can now reassure bus passengers that they will be able to use their tickets and passes to travel on Metrolink and most rail services running through affected areas. Thanks to both Northern and TransPennine Express for their support during this time.

“We are still expecting two thirds of Bee Network buses not to run during the strike, and we are sorry for any disruption or inconvenience this will cause to people’s journeys over the course of these days.

“Bus operators across the country are responsible for the pay and conditions of their staff, and we are continuing to encourage bus operators and their unions to continue talks, reach agreement and avoid disruption for passengers.

“I would urge everyone planning to make journeys over the coming days to check to see if they will be affected by this industrial action and plan accordingly. Our teams will also be out on the network helping passengers get where they need to go.”