Greater Manchester’s pioneering Bee Network is set to introduce its first new bus route later this month, one year since the city region took back control of its bus network, giving local communities a bigger say in how bus services are run. A new 615 bus service will connect Wigan with Middlebrook retail park, with its wide range of shops and eateries.
The hourly service restores a link to the popular retail park that was lost four years ago. From 27 October, Wiganers will benefit from new and improved services on a key commuter route, which will also boost access to two major shopping centres in the lead-up to Christmas. Middlebrook is the largest retail park in the north (and the second largest in the UK), and with it being just on the doorstep of Wigan, locals will be pleased to have access via bus once again.
In addition, there will be twice as many 132 services connecting Wigan with the Trafford Centre, with buses running every 30 minutes instead of just once an hour – which is the only way to travel between the two without a car.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said: “The introduction of the first new Bee Network bus service is an important milestone […] Once again, we are proving the benefits of a locally controlled and accountable bus network by delivering improvements for our local communities.
“With new and enhanced services connecting Wigan with the Trafford Centre and Middlebrook we are boosting access to jobs, retail and leisure opportunities – which is especially welcome in the lead-up to Christmas.
“The only way we can grow the Bee Network, improve services and keep fares low is if more people use it, so I’d encourage everyone to get onboard and enjoy our cleaner, cheaper and more reliable bus service.”
Passengers are encouraged to check any changes to their normal service by visiting a Travelshop or checking the Bee Network app or website. Information will also be updated on bus stops.