Transport boss warns of Bee Network disruption

The boss of Transport of Greater Manchester has asked commuters to be patient after freezing temperatures disrupted bus services in the region.

The difficult conditions have coincided with the full launch of the Bee Network, which began running in Tameside – and the 237 from Ashton to Glossop - on Sunday January 5. 

Danny Vaughan, TfGM’s CEO said: “With the weather forecast showing sub-zero temperatures across Greater Manchester and elsewhere over the coming days, we’re encouraging everyone to plan ahead, check before you travel and take extra care. 

“Roads and pavements could be icy, making driving conditions difficult and impacting journey times. There may also be some disruption to public transport services. 

“Our hard-working staff are continuing do everything they can to minimise disruption across the public transport network, while also working alongside partners to ensure platforms at tram stops, interchanges and the roads are gritted. 

“As always, they are being supported by our control room, which is staffed around the clock with links to local authorities and emergency services. Customers will also be able to find the latest information and travel advice on our social media and digital channels, with the Bee Network app also providing updates and bus and tram service departures.” 

The adverse weather has also affected Metrolink and rail lines in the region. 

The Bee Network announced that bus punctuality in the week before the cold snap had improved to a total of 86.9%, up from 81.6% a year earlier. 

Its figures consider services that run between one minute early and five minutes late as being ‘on time’.