Stagecoach Manchester awarded three major franchise contracts

Back L-R: Shah Wazir, Rochdale Council (Portfolio Holder for Highways); Lucy Smith deputy leader, Bury Council; Lee Wasnidge, MD Stagecoach Manchester; Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester; Ian Humphreys, First Bus; Matt Rawlinson, Diamond. Front L-R: Arooj Shah, leader, Oldham Council; Neil Emmott, leader, Rochdale Council; Lorna Fitzsimons, GM Business Board

Stagecoach Manchester has been awarded all three major franchise contracts in the lasted round of franchising in Greater Manchester.

The contracts awarded by Greater Manchester Combined Authority will see the operator run bus services from Middleton, Queens Road, and Oldham depots from 24 March 2024 as part the Bee Network plan, to deliver an integrated transport system for the people of Greater Manchester.

Under the contracts, Stagecoach Manchester will operate 87 routes, served by a fleet of 349 buses.

Employees currently working at the operators Middleton Depot will remain employed by Stagecoach Manchester whilst 947 employees will transfer from the current operators of Queens Road and Oldham Depots.

Lee Wasnidge, Managing Director of Stagecoach Manchester, said: “We are extremely proud to have been chosen for these contracts and are looking forward to providing exceptional bus services to customers across North Manchester.

“We have a fantastic team who have a proud history of serving the communities in Greater Manchester, and we are honoured to be entrusted with the responsibility of delivering reliable and high-quality services whilst maintaining crucial transport links for the people in our region.

“We are looking forward to working in partnership with the Mayor, Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Transport for Greater Manchester to implement planned improvements for customers on the Bee Network. Our shared goal is to deliver outstanding service, create a more sustainable future, develop stronger communities, and build a brighter future for our region.

“To the dedicated staff currently working at the depots that will be operated by Stagecoach, we extend a warm welcome. We want to assure you that we value your contribution and are committed to ensuring a smooth and positive transition. We will work closely with your current employers to support you throughout this process.”

Contracts for the final round of franchising are due to be awarded in Spring 2024, with the full Bee Network up and running from January 2025.