First Manchester

[gilesbus1]

RE: First Manchester

(24/02/2019 22:35)acocker96 Wrote:  First abandoned some estates like Limeside years ago, slowly withdrawing from routes like the 404, 405, 406 and the original 183. We’re a stagecoach dominated area we’re ripe for some competition and we have no links to the Metrolink without a 35 min walk.

Going back into the estates is a good way forward potentially I see.

Yes that's what I thought, linking to Trams is also good maybe with combined ticketing as that makes the switch easier. Competing on services into Central Manchester isn't the best idea any longer as trams can stop closer to the middle, also they are quicker on many routes as the tram infrastructure is clear of roads on the Oldham/Rochdale, Bury, East Didsbury and Altrincham services in the main.

Connecting buses are also good, I presume as far as Metrolink is concerned as that would allow growth for them also.

I doesn't mean replacing the bus, it merely means working together to provide better travel solutions for all.

Those who would rather use the bus should also still be catered for but maybe on services into central Manchester a little less often when a faster tram alternative is also available.

The model that buses should serve the communities away from the main roads now is right. GM Buses pulled off many of these under directorship of Alan Westwell because competitors had gained business on them, but a lot of those competitors have now closed in the last 25-30 or so years.