Praise for severe weather transport services

Greater Manchester’s transport leaders have praised bus, rail and tram operators for their efforts to maintain services during the recent severe weather conditions.

Councillor Keith Whitmore, Chairman of the Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority (GMITA) said: “Operators have worked hard to keep Greater Manchester moving as much as possible, and to get people to work in conditions that the region has rarely experienced before.

“Some disruption was inevitable in a prolonged period of extreme weather like this, but despite heavy snowfall, exceptionally low temperatures and icy conditions, most of Greater Manchester’s main road bus services have been running and train cancellations have been kept to a minimum. Bus station staff have also been working hard to keep bus stations as clear of snow as possible to keep the traffic moving.

“The Metrolink system was facing conditions like this for the first time in its history, but still managed to provide a service.

“We look forward to seeing that level of commitment carry on as the weather improves, and we expect operators to be vigilant as the thaw begins, which could in itself bring challenges.

“We would also like to thank passengers for their continued understanding of the difficulties the current weather conditions can cause.”