Strike action affecting bus and rail services

Metrolink stop at Shaw on the Rochdale to Oldham line

Public transport users are being advised to plan ahead as strikes are expected to cause disruption to bus and rail services next week.

On Monday 2 October First Bus services will be affected by a one-day strike by drivers from their Bolton and Rusholme depots. This will cause significant disruption with services on the north side of Greater Manchester expected to be particularly affected.

First Bus has published a list of affected services. These include the Vantage service on the Leigh Guided Busway.

Additionally, a Northern rail strike is taking place on Tuesday 3 October and Thursday 5 October. The strike is likely to cause significant disruption to rail services provided by operator Arriva Rail North (Northern) on Tuesday 3 October and Thursday 5 October.

The majority of Northern services will not run and any services that do run will be working to a revised timetable. Further details are available on Northern’s website.

TfGM’s Transport and Event Planning Lead, John Fryer, said: “We are taking action to minimise the disruption to the transport network; however, the impact is still likely to be significant.

“Our control room will open earlier and work later during this period and we will have additional customer service support on the phones and online to help people who have to travel, but our strongest advice is: expect disruption and plan ahead now.

“Metrolink tram services are not affected by the industrial action and all of Greater Manchester’s park and ride facilities will be open.

“Commuters can play their part and our advice is simple: plan ahead, be prepared, and think about all your travel choices.

“For example, can you travel at a different time, or does your employer allow you to work from home? If you can travel at a quieter time, or in a different way – it can make a massive improvement, not just to your journey but to everyone’s commute.”

The Conservative party conference is also taking place in Manchester city centre between Sunday 1 October and Wednesday 4 October. Public transport is expected to be busier than normal and city centre roads will be subject to closure and diversions.