Transport Secretary Louise Haigh visited Greater Manchester today ( July 11) to launch the government's ambitious bus revolution, pledging to empower communities across the country to take control of their bus services through franchising or public ownership.

During her visit, Haigh met with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to discuss the success of the area's Bee Network and how it could serve as a model for improved bus services nationwide.

The Transport Secretary promised to create and preserve essential bus routes throughout the UK, signalling an end to the "failed system of deregulation that has seen service levels plummet". The government's plan aims to eliminate the "postcode lottery" of bus services by implementing safeguards for local networks across the country.

Launched in September 2023, Greater Manchester's Bee Network has already shown promising results, with passenger numbers increasing by 5% in the first franchised area. Haigh witnessed firsthand how the integrated system has boosted reliability and ridership.

"Buses are the lifeblood of communities, but the system is broken," Haigh stated. "Too often, passengers are left waiting hours for buses that don't turn up – and some have been cut off altogether."

She added, "Change starts now. This new government will give local leaders the tools they need to deliver better buses up and down the country."

Mayor Andy Burnham welcomed the initiative, saying, "Properly integrated public transport is the key to unlocking growth and opportunity across our city-region, improving the lives of our residents, supporting businesses and delivering greater value for money."

The bus plan is part of the government's broader ambition to develop a long-term, national strategy for transport. It aims to streamline infrastructure delivery while empowering local communities to manage their public transport systems.

Graham Vidler, CEO of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, expressed support for the initiative, stating, "The industry stands fully behind the objectives of growing the nation's vital bus network and improving passengers' experiences."