Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has announced a new bus route in Salford as it marks the end of the first full year of the Bee Network.
From 4 January, 2026, battery-electric buses will serve the 30 service, connecting the area of the conurbation with the greatest residential growth to Manchester city centre.
Just under 12 months since the final tranche of the franchised services was launched on 5 January, TfGM revealed it had hit 250 million bus journeys. That landmark includes journeys since the phasing-in of local control began in September 2023.
To fund the new Bee Network service, Salford Council has secured around £2 million from local developers who have created about 1,000 new homes in the Ordsall area of Trafford.
TfGM says passenger numbers have increased by 29% and 18% across the first two areas brought under public control.
Also highlighted by TfGM was the re-opening of Middleton depot, which will serve 53 buses and becomes the second all-electric garage in the region.
In addition, the first of 284 new digital information screens for the area has been installed at North Manchester General Hospital, providing more information in a more accessible fashion.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, says: “It’s been a great first full year of locally controlled buses under the Bee Network.
“Many more people are now getting on board with services that are much more reliable, affordable and accessible, with new routes and more frequent buses better connecting people to jobs and opportunities.
“It’s all part of our plan to deliver a world-class transport network that will support a decade of good growth that benefits every part of Greater Manchester.”
Salford Mayor, Paul Dennett, adds: “This new number 30 bus is fantastic news for local people and something we have actively campaigned for here in Salford.
“Ordsall has seen significant growth and development in recent years with new apartments being constructed and this new service will provide vital connectivity for the community.
“Our council officers secured over £2 million from developers to fund the provision of a new section of bus route covering the Quays and Ordsall.
“And the service will also be provided by a fleet of new electric buses, supporting our commitments for carbon reduction and improved air quality.
“I look forward to seeing the route in operation and meeting the passengers using it.”
