The electric buses will enter service in parts of Bury, Rochdale and Oldham when the second tranche of franchising launches there in April 2024. The buses will be funded by the government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement.
The first 50 ebuses from the initial order will operate in Wigan and Bolton from September, for which Go North West and Diamond have been confirmed as the appointed operators.
Transport commissioner for Greater Manchester Vernon Everitt, said: “There is strong momentum towards the delivery of the Bee Network – an integrated London-style transport system – and bus franchising alongside our Metrolink trams means we have a solid foundation to build from. High demand for safe, reliable and affordable public transport in the region will only increase as we progressively join up our fares, ticketing and information systems to make using public transport easier and more accessible for everyone.
“We are also developing major schemes at pace, with more than £100m worth of projects currently being progressed, including dozens of new electric buses, plans for new quality bus routes and various projects that will significantly improve the travelling experience for passengers.”
