Greater Manchester Launches Public Consultation on 2050 Transport Plans
Residents, workers, students, and visitors in Greater Manchester are being invited to help shape the city region’s transport future through a public consultation on the Greater Manchester Transport Strategy 2050 and the Transport Delivery Plan 2027–2037.
Developed in collaboration with the region’s 10 local councils and extensive engagement with businesses, community groups, and stakeholders, the ambitious plans aim to expand and improve the Bee Network, Greater Manchester’s integrated transport system. The strategy seeks to support sustainable growth, tackle inequality, and create a greener city region while connecting people to jobs, education, healthcare, and leisure.
The consultation opened on Tuesday 9 December 2025 and will remain open until Monday 9 March 2026. Backed by £2.5 billion in government funding for projects into the early 2030s, the plans will also help deliver the £1 billion GM Good Growth Fund, which aims to accelerate regeneration and growth across all districts of the city region.
Greater Manchester has already made progress through the Bee Network, which integrates buses, trams, cycling, and walking. Local rail services are expected to join the network by 2028. By 2030, the city region aims for 90% of people to live within a five-minute walk of a bus or tram service running at least every 30 minutes.
Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said:
“World-class transport is the key to unlocking further sustainable economic growth, higher productivity and reducing inequality. We’re already leading the way through the creation of the Bee Network and seeing the clear benefits it’s delivering. We know there is still a huge amount of work to be done and it is critical that we take a long-term view through this 2050 strategy and delivery plan. We’ve got exciting multi-million-pound plans which will improve transport across Greater Manchester, including continuing our work to make sure everyone is safe, and feels safe, using the Bee Network. Every voice matters, and we’ve already engaged with communities, businesses and stakeholders to make sure people and places are at the heart of these plans. Now we want to hear what you think, so we can make sure they deliver what every area and community needs now and in the future.”
Dame Sarah Storey, Active Travel Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said:
“Greater Manchester is well underway in building the walking, wheeling and cycling components of the Bee Network. And part of that work is to make sure the region’s roads and public transport networks are safe, reliable and accessible for everyone who uses them. Transport unlocks opportunities, supports the creation of vibrant places and – by enabling people to walk and cycle – it also supports better health outcomes and improves physical health and mental wellbeing. Whatever the purpose of your journeys, it's time to share your views on the future transport plans, from the journey to school to the leisure trips you take and everything in between – how do these plans enable the journey options you and your family need – and what else do you suggest is considered?”
Image: Transport for Greater Manchester