At Fair for You, we understand how challenging the rising cost of living can be. Transportation is often one of the biggest expenses in many households, and it can be especially difficult when you need to travel for work, education, or essential services. That’s why we’re thrilled to share some exciting news for Greater Manchester residents: a new initiative set to make bus travel more affordable.
Starting in January 2025, the Mayor of Greater Manchester will introduce a brand new, innovative annual bus pass that promises to reduce the cost of travel. This £800 annual pass will provide unlimited travel on Bee Network buses across the entire Greater Manchester area. But what makes this initiative even more exciting is the ability to spread the cost of the pass over a year through a Credit Union loan, with no extra charge. This means you can manage your payments and avoid the financial strain of a lump sum payment, while still enjoying significant savings.
Why This Matters
If you’re struggling with the cost of living, this scheme offers a huge benefit. By spreading the payment for the annual bus pass over the year, you can save up to £240 annually compared to buying multiple 28-day tickets.
This means you could save nearly £5 a week, which adds up to a substantial amount of money over the course of the year. This also isn't just about affordability; it’s about providing certainty for people who rely on public transport to get to work, access essential services, and maintain their independence.
The Benefits of the New Travel Scheme
There’s more good news: this new scheme isn’t the only measure being introduced to make transport more accessible. A new "hopper fare" will replace single tickets on Bee Network buses, allowing you to hop on as many Bee Network buses as you like within one hour for the cost of just one fare. This offers more flexibility for passengers, especially those who may need to travel longer distances or switch buses frequently.
In addition, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) will be working with local Credit Unions to ensure that residents can easily apply for this new annual bus pass starting from December 5th. This means that from the very start of the new year, you could be using your pass to save money on travel.
A Step Towards Supporting the Community
The announcement of this new initiative comes at a critical time. A recent Greater Manchester Residents’ survey revealed that over half of respondents (55%) have experienced a rise in their cost of living, and 52% reported that their mental health has been negatively affected by the pressures of rising costs. The new bus fare scheme is designed to address these issues by offering Greater Manchester residents a more affordable and reliable public transport option, which helps reduce stress and uncertainty around travel costs.
Partnering with Credit Unions
Another exciting element of this initiative is the involvement of local Credit Unions. As part of the new plan, you’ll be able to spread payments for the annual pass (and potentially other Metrolink and bus products) through Credit Union loans. Credit Unions are not for profit financial cooperatives that have been offering affordable financial services in Greater Manchester for over 30 years.
By partnering with Credit Unions, the initiative ensures that residents will have access to affordable financing options with no hidden fees or high interest rates. This partnership demonstrates how community driven solutions can help address the financial challenges many of us face.
A More Affordable and Accessible Transport System
This initiative is just one of several steps taken to make travel in Greater Manchester more affordable and accessible. In September 2023, the discounted Bee Anybus + Tram ticket was launched, cutting the cost of combined journeys by up to 20%.
In addition, the introduction of capped bus fares in September 2022 and the continued support for Our Pass (providing free travel for 16–18-year-olds) are all part of a growing effort to make public transport more affordable for everyone.
The new initiatives reflect a broader vision for Greater Manchester: a fully integrated, publicly controlled transport system that serves the needs of the people. By bringing buses under local control for the first time in almost 40 years, Greater Manchester is positioning itself as a leader in creating a fairer and more accessible transport network for all.
What This Means for You
At Fair for You, we are committed to supporting you during these challenging times, and we’re excited to see these changes unfold. This new initiative will provide much-needed relief to those who depend on public transport to get to work, school, or essential appointments. Whether you are a regular bus user or only travel occasionally, the introduction of more affordable and flexible ticket options will make your life a little easier.
Explore the opportunities available through local Credit Unions and take advantage of this new initiative. Not only will this help make your transport more affordable, but it will also support your community and provide you with access to better financial options.
Keep an eye out for more information about the annual bus pass, the hopper fare, and how to apply through your local Credit Union in the coming months. Together, we can make transportation more affordable, so you can focus on the things that matter most.
Manchester Bus Pass FAQs
Can I use my bus pass on Manchester trams?
Yes, you can use a valid bus pass on Manchester trams, but it depends on the type of bus pass you have. The most common ones that allow tram travel are the Travelcard and the Metrolink Tram Ticket. It's always best to check with Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) for specific eligibility based on your pass.
How do I renew my bus pass in Greater Manchester?
To renew your bus pass in Greater Manchester, you can:
Visit the Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) website and apply online.
Alternatively, you can renew in person at an accredited retailer or through a Travel Centre.
Some passes may be renewed via post, depending on eligibility. Make sure you have your previous pass details and any necessary documents to complete the renewal process.
How much is a monthly bus pass in Manchester?
The cost of a monthly bus pass in Manchester varies based on the type of travel pass you need and the zones covered. Generally, the price is around £60 to £70 for unlimited travel across buses in Greater Manchester for a month. You can check for exact prices and availability on the TfGM website.
How much is a weekly bus pass in Manchester?
A weekly bus pass for travel within Greater Manchester typically costs around £16 to £20, depending on the areas it covers. This pass offers unlimited travel on buses for seven days.
How can I get a bus pass in Manchester?
You can get a bus pass in Manchester by:
Applying online via the TfGM website.
Purchasing at a TfGM Travel Centre or an authorised retail partner.
For certain passes, you may need to provide proof of age, disability, or residency, depending on eligibility.
What age can I get a free bus pass in Manchester?
In Greater Manchester, the free bus pass is typically available for people aged 60 and over or those who meet certain disability criteria. Additionally, children under 5 can travel for free on buses.
Can I use my bus pass on Manchester trains?
Some bus passes, like the Older Person's Pass, may allow you to travel on certain train services within Greater Manchester, especially on local trains (Metrolink) or specific routes under the Travelcard system. It is best to check with TfGM to see which specific train services are eligible for your bus pass.