Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has partnered with mobility technology company Via Transportation to modernise the Bee Network’s Ring & Ride and Local Link services.
This initiative aligns with Greater Manchester’s plans for an integrated Bee Network, aimed at improving connectivity and accessibility across the region.
Ring & Ride is a door-to-door service designed for disabled people and older residents with mobility difficulties, offering low-cost transport across Greater Manchester. Meanwhile, Local Link operates as a flexible minibus service in areas with limited public transport options.
With the introduction of Via’s technology, these services have undergone significant upgrades to enhance efficiency and ease of use. The modernised system provides over 850 passengers per day with improved booking options and travel flexibility.
Sam Griffiths, Head of the UK & Nordics at Via said:Via is delighted to partner with TfGM to upgrade these services with our tech, and in turn make travel easier for all residents in Greater Manchester.
Across the UK, we’ve seen how technology-driven mobility can transform communities, and we’re proud to support Manchester’s vision for a more connected and accessible region.
The upgrades include:
New Booking Options: Passengers can now book rides using a dedicated mobile app, offering real-time updates. Traditional booking methods via call centres and web platforms remain available to ensure inclusivity.
Optimised Routing: Via’s scheduling technology groups passengers travelling in the same direction, reducing wait times and improving journey efficiency.
Future Integration with the Bee Network: Plans are in place to link these services with Greater Manchester’s broader transport network, enabling smoother transfers and improved accessibility.
The partnership with Via follows Greater Manchester’s decision to become the first city-region outside London to fully franchise its bus network. The changes allow TfGM to manage routes, fares, and service standards directly. The modernisation of Ring & Ride and Local Link supports this approach, contributing to a more inclusive and environmentally sustainable transport system.
Alison Chew, TfGM’s Deputy Director of Bus said:The Bee Network is committed to making public transport and active travel more inclusive and accessible for everyone in Greater Manchester, and both Ring & Ride and Local Link play a vital role in providing access to low-cost, accessible and flexible journeys by public transport.
We have invested significantly in modernising our public transport system to improve accessibility, including fitting our new Bee Network buses with audiovisual announcements, hearing loops and wheelchair bays, and we’re working hard to deliver even more improvements for our passengers.
We know that these door-to-services are a lifeline for so many people in areas that are often hard to reach by traditional public transport, so we are delighted to be partnering with Via to help bring Ring & Ride and Local Link in line with our wider Bee Network to deliver a truly bespoke, modern and flexible experience for our customers.
