News Beat
Bee Network unveils public transport plans for 2026
The new Bee Network will create a single, joined-up system across the city region to create the first ‘truly integrated public transport system outside London’.
Services linking Manchester with Glossop and Stalybridge will join the Bee Network from December 13 next year.
Seventeen stations will be refreshed with new branding and information points, and ‘tap-in, tap-out’ contactless ticketing will be introduced to simplify passenger journeys.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “With one year to go until rail joins the Bee Network, we are on the cusp of delivering a fully integrated, world-class transport system for our global city-region.
“These changes will make everyday journeys easier and open up new opportunities for people across Greater Manchester.
“I am excited for what the next twelve months will bring as we build a better, more connected future for us all.”
The first rail lines to be included will connect Manchester to Glossop and Stalybridge, followed by more routes in 2027 and 2028.
From January 2028, eight rail lines and 64 stations are expected to be integrated into the Bee Network.
Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said: “More joined-up and affordable public transport enables sustainable economic growth, higher productivity and greater access to homes, jobs and opportunity for the people and businesses of Greater Manchester.”
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy welcomed the plans and said they will support broader economic and housing growth.
He said: “With the support of Government funding, passengers across Greater Manchester will soon benefit from simpler fares, more reliable journeys and better connections when rail becomes part of the Bee Network.
“Thanks to our rail reforms giving local leaders the power and support to deliver schemes like this, we are creating a fairer, more prosperous transport network that people can be proud of.”
In addition to new ticketing and branding, the scheme will bring wider improvements, including upgraded stations, more accessible travel options, and new airport services.
TfGM is also working with the rail industry to improve passenger experiences at Manchester Piccadilly and Victoria stations, including better signage, real-time information, and customer support.
Work on step-free access is already underway at Bryn station in Wigan, with further improvements planned for Hindley, Reddish North, and Swinton.
Tricia Williams, Managing Director of Northern, said: “We’re really pleased to be working closely with Transport for Greater Manchester to deliver lasting improvements for our customers.
“We have a shared vision of delivering a reliable and inclusive railway that meets the needs of everyone in the region, opens up a range of new opportunities and supports economic growth.”
