Go-Ahead awarded new contracts to expand bus services in Greater Manchester

Go-Ahead will expand its operations in Greater Manchester after being awarded two new contracts under the region’s franchised bus network, awarded by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) with services operating from depots in both Bolton and Leigh.

Go North West will begin running the new services from March 2027, adding 60 buses to its fleet across 38 new routes. The expansion builds on Go-Ahead’s track record of delivering essential, high-quality bus services for TfGM’s Bee Network.

As part of the new contracts, Go North West will open a new depot in Leigh, to serve 18 routes, creating new jobs with Go North West and across the wider Greater Manchester area. With one of Go-Ahead’s engineering academies and its Elite driver training academy both based in Manchester, Go North West is already a significant contributor to local jobs and training.

Go-Ahead will continue working closely with TfGM to deliver strong operational performance and services that meet the needs of the communities they serve.

Nigel Featham, Managing Director, Go North West, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have been chosen to operate these services and grateful for the confidence TfGM has placed in us. This award is a real credit to the passion and commitment our colleagues have shown since the Bee Network began, and we’re looking forward to building on that success. Over the months ahead we’ll focus on a smooth mobilisation, welcoming new colleagues and delivering the safe, reliable and welcoming service that customers across Greater Manchester expect from the Bee Network.”

Martin Dean, Managing Director, UK Regional Bus, added: “We’re pleased to be growing our partnership with TfGM and investing further in Greater Manchester through new facilities, new jobs and new opportunities. We’re proud to be playing our part in strengthening the Bee Network, delivering reliable, high-quality services that people can depend on every day.”