Definitely worth it's own thread. Metrolink is kicking arse, regardless of what the bus operators say. :)
As and when more lines are up and running, more people throughout Gtr Manchester will benefit from lower travel/transport costs.
MEN.
As and when more lines are up and running, more people throughout Gtr Manchester will benefit from lower travel/transport costs.
MEN.
Quote:
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Bus fares slashed as battle for passengers hots up 23 Mar 2013 10:31 The move comes as First and other bus operators face increased competition from new Metrolink lines to Oldham, Rochdale and Droylsden, and other areas Share on print Share on email The biggest bus firm in Greater Manchester has announced it is slashing fares by up to a third. The move comes as First and other bus operators face increased competition from new Metrolink lines to Oldham, Rochdale and Droylsden, and other areas. But First bosses deny they were responding to the expanded tram network – saying instead they want to lure more car drivers off the roads. Simon Pearson, commercial director for First in Greater Manchester, said the bonanza would benefit squeezed daily commuters. He said: “At a time when some of the poorest households are spending over a quarter of their disposable income on buying and running a car, these improvements will give car drivers a real reason to reappraise the bus as a viable alternative.” The price cuts, which begin on April 8, will see a FirstDay ticket go from £4.50 to £4, a Manchester FirstWeek ticket from £18 to £13, and a Child Weekly Ticket reduced to £6.50. The operator, which runs 672 buses across Greater Manchester, also announced plans to invest almost £10m in services, including 50 new single-decker buses and free wi-fi. Metrolink is undergoing at £1.4bn expansion that will also see extensions to Manchester airport, East Didsbury, Ashton-under-Lyne, and to Oldham and Rochdale town centres. Passenger groups and politicians, said competition it would create more choice for travellers. David Sidebottom, passenger director at the independent watchdog Passenger Focus, said: “Passengers will welcome lower and simpler fares, plus the new buses and free wi-fi.” A First Day ticket allowing unlimited travel for one day would allow passengers from Shaw to travel to Manchester city centre by bus for £4.50, compared to a £6.20 Metrolink return ticket, although the tram journey would be up to 30 minutes quicker. Coun Andrew Fender, chairman of Transport for Greater Manchester committee, which oversees the tram network, said: “The move brings a level of consistency to bus fares in Greater Manchester. “So, regardless of where you live you’ll pay a similar price, which is excellent news.” |