The Bee Network Committee met on Thursday 25 June 2026, which has led to some interesting plans being brought up, not least the possibility of a Metrolink tram network expansion out towards Bolton and Wigan.
The report from the meeting provides an update on progress delivering a pipeline of transport infrastructure improvements to support the Bee Network.
Rapid transit expansion for Salford, Bolton and Wigan
The SOC will consider a potential Metrolink extension from the Regional Centre to Salford Crescent, a possible link to Salford Quays, and onward connections into Wigan and Bolton, including the potential use of tram‑train technology.
A drawdown of £1.512 million is being sought to explore these options for rapid transit expansion focused on North West Greater Manchester, set to cover modelling and appraisal work, initial design activity, and the development of early cost and carbon estimates.
The last update on any kind of expansion to the Metrolink network came last summer, alongside the announcement of an airport extension that would feature Stockport, Wythenshawe, and Altrincham. As was true then, none of the north west areas of Greater Manchester currently have access to the tram network.
Bury Interchange project
Planning permission for Phase 1 of the Bury Interchange Project was granted on 22 July 2025. This phase comprises a new footbridge and improved access to the south of the Metrolink platform, together with enhancements to the platform and passenger facilities.
Further requests and scheme progressions
Other schemes mentioned in the most recent report include:
- Traffic signal Improvements, journey time information, and bus stop audit and upgrades of bus stops as part of City Centre Bus Strategy Phase 2.
- Improving Journeys – Orbital Bus Routes Programme.
- Bus depot engineering asset renewals.
- Golborne station.
- Trafford: Partington Sustainable Travel Scheme.
- Salford: Ordsall Neighbourhood Scheme.
You can find out more information from the report here.
