Bee Network Boom: Record Passenger Growth Fuels Greater Manchester’s Transport Expansion

Greater Manchester’s Bee Network is seeing a surge in popularity, with passenger numbers rising sharply as the integrated transport system continues to expand.

Over the past year, bus usage alone has increased significantly, with an additional eight million journeys recorded. The city-region’s Starling Bank bike hire scheme has also seen strong growth, with trips up by 32%, while Metrolink tram ridership has reached its highest level to date.

The network is set to take another major step forward in December 2026, when rail services are brought into the Bee Network for the first time. Plans are already in place to introduce a “tap and go” payment system across eight commuter rail lines by 2028, complete with capped fares to make travel simpler and more affordable.

Bus services are also due for further upgrades over the coming year. These include the introduction of night buses in every borough, a move expected to benefit around 740,000 residents across Greater Manchester.

Passenger satisfaction is also on the rise. An independent national survey conducted last month found that overall satisfaction with bus services has climbed to 86%—a notable increase from 79% in both 2023 and 2024. The results also showed improved perceptions of value for money, putting Greater Manchester ahead of the national trend, which has been declining.

The annual Your Bus Journey report by Transport Focus highlighted strong approval ratings for drivers, with 84% of passengers praising their helpfulness.

The latest figures come as Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) celebrates the workforce behind the network during the first-ever World Public Transport Day. Thousands of staff—from drivers to control room teams—play a vital role in keeping services running smoothly across the region.

Danny Vaughan, Chief Network Officer at TfGM, emphasised that the success of the Bee Network is driven by its people, noting that it is the combined efforts of frontline staff and behind-the-scenes teams that keep Greater Manchester moving.

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