Tap and go ‘momentous’, Burnham says
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham announced the successful introduction of 'tap-and-go' ticketing for buses and trams, marking a milestone in the Bee Network's integration. Despite initial challenges, the system aims to improve public transport accessibility and affordability. However, Burnham acknowledged ongoing issues like overcrowding and the need for more services, especially on match days and busy routes.
Greater Manchester Achieves Integrated Transport System with ‘Hidden’ Ticketing Revolution
Andy Burnham hailed Monday as a “momentous day for Greater Manchester” as the region completed its transformation to a fully integrated public transport system through a behind-the-scenes ticketing overhaul that went live Sunday.
The mayor celebrated the introduction of ‘tap-and-go’ ticketing across buses and trams, marking the culmination of extensive technical work that moved trams onto a new system and unified all buses under one platform. “Complicated, but that wiring is hidden to the public,” Burnham explained at Exchange Square. “They just turned up and have started using the new system.”
While passengers may notice little immediate difference - tram tapping has existed since July 2019 and bus contactless payments mirror card ticket purchases - Transport for Greater Manchester bosses anticipate the simplified system will drive increased ridership. This growth presents challenges, as Metrolink recorded its busiest ever month in November, with overcrowding complaints on popular routes.
Burnham acknowledged these capacity concerns, particularly on the V1 route and match days at Etihad and Old Trafford. “We’ve got to get on and order those trams,” he stated, emphasizing the need to stay ahead of the city’s expanding population and economy ahead of the upcoming government spending review. The tap-and-go launch concludes phase one of the Bee Network implementation, with phase two bringing the system to 99 commuter rail stations and potential underground rail capability in phase three.
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